Core Insights - Amazon is developing a "rush" pickup service to allow shoppers to collect orders from Amazon-owned stores within an hour, aiming to enhance delivery speed and convenience [1][3][10] Group 1: Service Development - The new "rush" pickup service will enable a "unified" order system, allowing customers to order from both Amazon's online marketplace and items in physical stores [2] - The pilot launch of this service is planned for at least one metro area by the first quarter of 2026, although the timeline may be subject to change [3] Group 2: Market Context - In-store pickup, or "click-and-collect," is experiencing significant growth, with total US sales projected to reach $112.96 billion in 2024, a 17% increase from 2023, and expected to grow to $129.33 billion by 2027 [8] - Approximately 152.9 million Americans, or 68% of digital buyers, are projected to use click-and-collect services by 2025 [8] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Amazon leads in e-commerce sales, but Walmart has a competitive edge in delivery speed, reaching about 95% of American households within three hours due to its extensive store network [9] - Walmart is also a leader in click-and-collect services, with projected sales of $38.50 billion in 2024 [9] Group 4: Strategic Goals - The "rush" pickup service aims to meet customer demand for faster access to a wider product selection while optimizing Amazon's physical store network and logistics [10] - The initiative is part of Amazon's broader strategy to validate customer demand for rapid pickup and effectively integrate physical and digital offerings [10]

Amazon plans to transform a closed Amazon Fresh Pickup site in Seattle into a new retail-style delivery hub for ultrafast local orders — a sign of the company's evolving strategy for hyperlocal fulfil... ...