Amazon has launched a new service, Amazon Now, offering ultra-fast grocery deliveries in under 30 minutes. Customers can choose from a wide range of groceries and household essentials, including items like milk, eggs, nappies, and medicines.
The service is currently being tested in selected postcodes in the Southwark area of London, using bike riders recruited through Amazon Flex. The company plans to expand the service to more areas in the coming months.
Amazon’s UK country manager, John Boumphrey, stated that Amazon Now provides customers with a higher level of speed and convenience, delivering thousands of items in less than half an hour. This initiative reflects Amazon’s commitment to faster delivery services, enhancing the existing same-day and next-day delivery options across the UK.
Amazon’s decision to introduce its ultra-fast delivery service follows a partnership with Gopuff established last July. The service is available to Prime members at a discounted delivery fee of £1.99 per order, compared to £3.99 for non-Prime members. Orders under £15 incur a £2 fee, irrespective of membership status. Prime members already enjoy fast and free delivery on numerous items across various categories.
The company emphasized its dedication to improving shopping experiences for UK customers and hinted at forthcoming updates on the new offering. Amazon’s shift towards online delivery services was announced following the closure of its 19 UK grocery stores last September. Despite this setback, Amazon remains focused on expanding its online grocery and household essentials segment, which has seen significant growth in the UK market.