Amazon Launches One-Hour Delivery Service In Baltimore
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Amazon is speeding things up here in Baltimore. The company started one-hour delivery to some local zip codes. It's a first for our area, and it could change the way people shop.
Christie Ileto explains how this instant gratification ordering works.
By the time you park, pay and pack your items, you could have already had what you needed at your doorstep.
Amazon just announced one-hour delivery service for Baltimore residents, meaning you can get what you order online right away. It's available in certain parts of the city, but will soon be expanding to other zip codes.
"When I heard I could get two-hour delivery for free, one-hour for $8, that's cheaper than going across town to Radio Shack," said Craig Booth.
Convenience is key.
"I've had instances where I've ordered something and really needed it, like right away, and I paid to get it the next day. So it will be good if there's an option to get in a couple of hours," said David Jefferson.
Baltimore is one of three cities with this new delivery option. One of the reasons why Amazon chose Charm City is because of their new distribution center that's set to open later this spring.
"We're super excited about it and we knew our customers are going to love the convenience of one-hour delivery," said Kelly Cheeseman, Amazon.
So, what does this mean for brick and mortar stores?
"It means increased competition. Every time a consumer then clicks and uses this service, that's a lost sale to their neighborhood drug store, grocer," said Pat Donahoe, Maryland Retailers Association.
But some customers are somewhat skeptical.
"I don't know what I would need in two hours that quickly," one girl said.
But on Twitter, Baltimoreans are already praising the quick service that's a cascading hit in its first 24 hours.
Amazon says only 25,000 products are available for this service.
Amazon says residents living in Northwest Baltimore will soon have the one-hour delivery option.
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