Amazon captures UK public’s imagination with grocery stores

More than three-quarters (76%) of UK adults are keen to shop in the new grocery stores being rolled out by Amazon, according to research by Mintel.

Europe’s first Amazon Fresh store opened in London last week but many others are expected to follow as the retail giant aims for a bigger slice of the grocery market.

When asked what would encourage them to shop at a physical Amazon grocery store, nearly two-thirds (63%) of those surveyed by Mintel said they would be attracted to discounts for Prime membership and a quarter (24%) would like the opportunity to be able to collect online orders.

Overall attraction in shopping at these physical stores is higher among younger shoppers, with 84% of 16-34s showing some interest, whereas 39% of over-65s said they would not shop in an Amazon grocery store.

In its US Go and Fresh stores, Amazon has made waves with its “Just Walk Out” technology that allows shoppers a checkout-free experience.

While fewer than one in five (17%) UK adults are drawn to the prospect of cashier-less technology, this rises to 27% of 16-24s.

The importance of a fast shopping experience is highlighted by the 44% of consumers who say they have looked to limit their time in-store since the pandemic began.

Mintel retail associate director Nick Carroll said: “This is a destination store and a technological show of force from Amazon, designed to give shoppers a glimpse into the future.”

The ‘Just Walk Out’ store in Ealing, west London.