IGD gives Amazon Go first impressions

IGD’s North American analyst, Stewart Samuel, has visited the Amazon Go concept in Seattle to review the technology and core proposition.

“Our first impression is that Amazon Go is an excellent convenience format,” IGD says. “The technology worked flawlessly, even if it felt unnatural to walk out without physically paying or having any form of interaction with store staff at the end of the visit. The balance of the offer is excellent; the fresh food ranges which include a significant number of healthy eating product choices, are impressive. A high degree of thought and planning sits behind the grocery top-up offer. Along with the contemporary store design, this store would have strong appeal in any urban setting.”

It adds: “While this initial store will provide Amazon with learnings in terms of the technology and offer development, there are likely to be further test stores before any decision is made on a wider roll-out. The amount of technology, and its associated cost, required in each store, is likely to be a challenge, particularly given the relatively low basket spend within a convenience store. However, as a marketing tool, and helping to raise brand awareness, this store has probably already provided a return on the investment.”

Further details here.