New York, NY, January 28, 2026
Amazon is closing its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh physical stores as it pivots towards expanding Whole Foods Market and enhancing grocery delivery services. The closure affects 57 Amazon Fresh and 15 Amazon Go locations, with most set to shut down by February 2026. Despite the setbacks, customers will still have access to Amazon Fresh online services for convenient grocery delivery. The company plans to open over 100 new Whole Foods stores and roll out a new grocery supercenter concept, showcasing its commitment to evolving its grocery business.
Amazon Shifts Grocery Strategy, Closing Go and Fresh Stores
Company focuses on Whole Foods expansion and delivery services
New York, NY – Amazon recently announced significant changes to its grocery business, including the closure of all its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh physical stores. This move aims to redirect resources towards enhancing Whole Foods Market and improving grocery delivery services. The impacted stores include 57 Amazon Fresh and 15 Amazon Go locations, with the majority slated to close by February 1, 2026. However, specific California stores will continue operations longer due to state regulations.
Despite initial ambitions, Amazon has found it challenging to create a scalable economic model for its Amazon-branded grocery stores. Customers looking for grocery shopping options can still utilize Amazon Fresh online services, which promise fast and convenient delivery.
Expansion of Whole Foods Market
Since acquiring Whole Foods in 2017, Amazon has experienced remarkable growth, reporting over 40% sales increase and expanding its reach to more than 550 locations. In response to its success with Whole Foods, the company plans to open over 100 new stores in the coming years, reflecting a robust strategy that focuses on traditional grocery retail.
Introducing New Concepts and Technologies
In addition to the Whole Foods expansion, Amazon is innovating its retail strategy through the launch of a new grocery “supercenter” concept and an Amazon Grocery section in select cities. This diversification aims to meet changing consumer preferences while enhancing the customer experience through technological advancements.
One key aspect of this strategic overhaul is the continued development and implementation of the “just walk out” technology, originally pioneered at Amazon Go stores. This technology is already in operation in over 360 locations worldwide, including various Amazon warehouses, further underscoring Amazon’s commitment to streamlining the shopping process.
Employee Transition and Job Opportunities
With the planned closures, Amazon has committed to assisting affected employees in finding new roles within the company. This forward-thinking approach not only supports workforce sustainability but also emphasizes Amazon’s ongoing investment in its expansive operations network.
Maintaining Delivery Services
Despite shutting down its physical grocery stores, Amazon remains dedicated to its online grocery delivery services. Customers can continue to access the Amazon Fresh platform, which offers same-day delivery options in many areas, enhancing the overall convenience for shoppers who prefer online grocery purchases.
Conclusion
Amazon’s strategic pivot away from its grocery store formats in favor of Whole Foods Market signifies a broader trend in the retail grocery industry. By concentrating on a more successful model with an established brand and evolving delivery options, Amazon showcases the importance of agility in business strategy. Local businesses in Baltimore can take inspiration from Amazon’s determination to adapt and innovate, demonstrating resilience and bringing greater convenience to consumers. Engaging with these evolving business landscapes can open pathways for growth within our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Amazon closing its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores?
Amazon is closing all its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh physical stores to focus on expanding Whole Foods Market and enhancing its grocery delivery services. This decision affects 57 Amazon Fresh and 15 Amazon Go locations, with most closures set for February 1, 2026; California stores will remain open longer due to state regulations.
What will happen to the employees of the closed stores?
Amazon is working to help employees find roles elsewhere in the company, including across its vast operations network, as it makes this transition.
Will Amazon continue to offer grocery delivery services?
Yes, Amazon continues to support its online Fresh delivery service, now available with same-day delivery in many areas.
How has Whole Foods Market performed since Amazon’s acquisition?
Since acquiring Whole Foods in 2017, Amazon has seen over 40% sales growth, expanding to more than 550 locations.
What is Amazon’s new retail “supercenter” concept?
Amazon is introducing a new retail “supercenter” concept and piloting an Amazon Grocery section alongside Whole Foods in select cities.
Key Features of Amazon’s Strategic Shift
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Store Closures | All Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh physical stores are closing, with most closures set for February 1, 2026; California stores will remain open longer due to state regulations. |
| Whole Foods Expansion | Amazon plans to open more than 100 new Whole Foods Market stores in the coming years. |
| Grocery Delivery Services | Amazon continues to support its online Fresh delivery service, now available with same-day delivery in many areas. |
| New Retail Concept | Amazon is introducing a new retail “supercenter” concept and piloting an Amazon Grocery section alongside Whole Foods in select cities. |
| Technological Innovations | Amazon continues to expand its “just walk out” technology, developed at Amazon Go stores, which is now used in over 360 global locations and at Amazon warehouses. |
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