Amazon officially launches in Australia today
Weeks of speculation are over.
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Hawke’s Bay
Amazon Australia has confirmed it will officially launch today, ending weeks of speculation over whether it would hit the go button before Christmas.
The giant e-tailer is promising one-day deliveries in most capital cities and 30% discounts on big-brand toys and clothing.
Amazon Australia says it will be selling "millions" of products across 23 categories including toys, consumer electronics, sporting and outdoor goods, tools and home improvement, beauty products, clothing and accessories.
The new service will be backed by a fulfilment centre in Melbourne.
Analysts remain split over whether Amazon will open a warehouse in New Zealand. Some Kiwi players, like Trade Me, say Amazon’s high-volume model might not suit our smaller market. Nevertheless, Trade Me is preparing for that, with a trial of an Amazon Prime-style service that offers unlimited deliveries for a fixed fee.
Amazon Australia recently held an open day for retailers, looking to position itself as a partner rather than a threat. Consultants and integrators like Sell Global and CIN7 are pushing the benefits for Australian or Kiwi sellers who partner on a wholesale or shop window level with the US giant.
Meanwhile, Amazon Australia has confirmed it will launch the Echo line of speakers in New Zealand, powered by its Alexa virtual assistant. Amazon has also started running its first TV commercials here and has commissioned a documentary series on the All Blacks.
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Amazon officially launches in Australia today
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