Overview
- Amazon is closing two 'Amazon Style' physical clothing stores located in Los Angeles and Columbus, Ohio, marking another withdrawal from brick-and-mortar retail.
- Despite early suggestions that Amazon's entry into physical retail could threaten traditional retailers like Macy's and Kohl's, this withdrawal follows the closure of Amazon's bookstores, pop-up locations, and 4-star shops.
- The company, while abandoning certain physical retail formats, is stressing its continued commitment to its grocery business, spanning Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, Amazon Go, and partnerships with third parties.
- The closure is part of Amazon's shift in strategy towards enhancing its online apparel platform, which reported approximately $41 billion in sales in 2020. The company will continue to introduce innovative technology and more product selections to improve the online shopping experience.
- Affected employees from the Amazon Style stores will be supported in finding new roles within the company, with severance packages offered to those who choose to leave.