Another
step towards omnichannel
Plenty
of physical retailers have started their own web shop, with some of the more successful web
shops going into the other direction (like Zalando). Amazon also seems to move
towards omni-channel: it had already opened several
pop-up stores, introducing people to Kindle products and
these vending machines are adding to that direction.
Amazon has placed these machines at several locations around the United States,
also in locations without pop-up store to back them up. “We’re very happy with the customer response so far, and are
excited to give customers (like you!) another easy way to purchase accessories
and also Kindle e-readers and Kindle Fire tablets”, an Amazon spokesperson told
GeekWire.
Amazon’s
choice for vending machines is no surprise: they fit the Amazon philosophy, which is always on the lookout to increase margins,
like with increased automation in the logistics centres. It remains to be seen how
successful these vending machines will be, as not everyone is too eager to buy an
expensive tablet out of a vending machine, but cheaper products may lower the
bar.
(translated by Gary Peeters)
