(LOOTPRESS) – Amazon has introduced a new, budget-friendly online storefront called Amazon Haul, featuring electronics, apparel, and various other items priced under $20.
This initiative aims to compete with discount retailers that have increasingly gained traction in the e-commerce market. In a blog post on Wednesday, Amazon outlined that most products on the Haul platform will cost less than $10, with free delivery on orders over $25. The company plans to fulfill these orders from a warehouse in China, with delivery times expected within one to two weeks. The products on Haul bear a resemblance to those found on platforms like Shein and Temu, which have gained popularity for offering affordable, trendy items.
Shein primarily caters to young women seeking budget-friendly fashion, while Temu offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and home goods, attracting shoppers looking for deals. Both companies have faced criticism for the environmental impact of their fast-fashion models and have been scrutinized by lawmakers and regulators for various concerns, including the safety of some products on their platforms.
Amazon Haul, accessible through its shopping app and mobile website, features unbranded items like a $2.99 phone case and a $14.99 sleeveless dress. Amazon is emphasizing value, with banners promoting “crazy low prices” and affordable activewear. Dharmesh Mehta, Amazon’s VP of Worldwide Selling Partner Services, stated, “Finding great products at very low prices is important to customers, and we continue to explore ways that we can work with our selling partners so they can offer products at ultra-low prices.” He also mentioned that the platform is still in its early stages, and Amazon will continue to refine it based on customer feedback.
However, importing goods from China may become more expensive for Amazon due to recent policy changes. In September, the Biden administration introduced measures to reduce U.S. reliance on Chinese goods, which could lead to higher prices for consumers shopping on platforms like Shein and Temu. Additionally, President-elect Donald Trump has proposed a 60% tariff on Chinese imports.
In other news, Amazon announced that it will shut down its free, ad-supported streaming service, Freevee, consolidating its content under Prime Video. The company confirmed on Wednesday that Freevee will be phased out in the coming weeks, with all Freevee content available under Prime Video labeled as “Watch for Free.” This move is designed to streamline the user experience, offering both Prime and non-Prime members access to free streaming content, while maintaining the existing benefits for Prime members.
