Amazon Go to open first UK store this week

The first UK branch of Amazon Go will make its debut in Ealing, west London, The Mail on Sunday reported.

The arrival of the format in the UK has been much anticipated. Amazon Go stores allow customers to shop and leave without queuing. In-store cameras and sensors track what they take from the shelves and they are then charged using the Amazon mobile app.

It is thought that grocer Morrisons, which has had a relationship with Amazon for some time, will supply food to the store. 

There are already around 25 Amazon Go branches in the etailer’s domestic US market, but the Ealing store will be the first overseas. It is thought there are plans for at least 30 more Amazon Go shops in the UK.

Grocery retail expert Bryan Roberts, who has visited Amazon Go stores, said the format is impressive, but questioned whether it would revolutionise food shopping.

He told The Mail: “It is unlike anything else I have ever experienced among the big retailers. With other contactless and self-checkout stores there are often glitches and they all involve a degree of effort and time from the customer.

“With Amazon Go, once you’ve registered and have the app, you do literally walk straight out. I’m not sure this is going to lead to the death of the supermarket, but Amazon Go is a brilliant showcase for their technology.”