The launch of Amazon’s marketplace within South Africa has been pushed back, according to a “well-placed” source who spoke with Daily Investor. Jeff Bezos’ empire was initially meant to expand sometime next month, though it seems that date has been pushed back to the end of 2023. Just in time for that Christmas push, huh?
We have Amazon at home
Despite having already secured warehouse space and agreeing to terms with South African courier companies and fast-moving consumer goods retailers, the company is slowing the rollout until Q3 or Q4 at the latest. It’s possible that the constant threat of load shedding has given the company pause.
It’s far more likely that it’s taking a second to breathe after planning to fire more than 18,000 of its employees. “Amazon has weathered uncertain and difficult economies in the past, and we will continue to do so,” said the retailer’s CEO, Andy Jassy. “These changes will help us pursue our long-term opportunities with a stronger cost structure.”
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The same sources close to the retail giant said that operations have been completely paused in its Nigeria rollout, though South Africa’s launch plan – codenamed ‘Project Fela’ — is still going ahead albeit at a later date than first planned.
When Amazon does eventually launch in South Africa, it’ll bring with it its Prime membership service and the ‘Fulfilment by Amazon’ service for third-party sellers in the country. Goodbye Takealot, you had a good run.
Source: Daily Investor