Amazon is opening 10 pop-up stores across the UK, with the first launching in Manchester today.
Amazon has teamed up with Enterprise Nation, Direct Line for Business and Square to roll out the temporary shops, which will also open in Wales, Scotland, the Midlands, Yorkshire and across the South East.
They are part of a year-long pilot designed to give 100 small online businesses their first bricks-and-mortar presence.
The move follows the government’s call for new ideas to develop its Future High Streets strategy.
As part of the project, Amazon will invest £1m in a new SME Apprenticeship Fund. It will also provide free digital training to small businesses.
Amazon UK country manager Doug Gurr said: “Small businesses are one of our most important customer groups… From giving up-and-coming online British brands the chance to experience physical retail, to funding the training of full-time apprenticeships and helping to increase SME exports, Amazon is committed to supporting the growth of small businesses – helping them boost the economy and create jobs across the UK.”
Enterprise Nation founder Emma Jones added: “This new concept will provide small businesses with the space, technology and support to experience physical retail for the first time, while enabling customers to discover new brands on their local high streets.”
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