This reminded me that I hadn’t yet checked out the Amazon Books store that opened in Marina del Rey, not that far from where I live. So we took a field trip to it yesterday. I wasn’t expecting much from it. I’d heard things. I have to say, though, that I was pleasantly surprised.
The store is at one end of the Waterside shopping center near a California Pizza Kitchen. As soon as we walked in the door, we were greeted by an employee. There were plenty people working so there was no problem finding someone to help you. Something that’s not true at the Macy’s I frequent where it’s often difficult to find help on a weekday morning.
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| The store from the entrance |
My first impression was that it was bigger than I expected. Books were displayed similar to a “regular” bookstore—some books were displayed in stacks on tables while others were on shelves, some with the cover facing the customer, others with the spines. I’d heard from others that all books were displayed cover out. Not the case in this store.
As you might expect, their selection of books was fairly small with pretty much everything being from well-known/best-selling authors. The mystery/thriller section featured books by Louise Penny, John Grisham, Stephen King, etc. No cozy mysteries, but I didn’t really expect there to be any in the store.
There was a fairly large Childrens’ books section as well as a nice selection of vegetarian and vegan cookbooks. There were plenty of other cookbooks as well, but I like vegetarian and vegan cookbooks, so I notice them. They also carried some items that apparently were high on people’s Amazon wishlists.
Each of the books had an Amazon Prime price, generally significantly below the “regular” price of the book. This is the same price if you bought the book online. If you’re an Amazon Prime member you’ll get that price when you purchase the item if you use the Amazon app to pay or use the credit card that is associated with your Amazon account. Those are the only two methods of payment they currently take. No cash. I’ve heard rumors, though, that they may be taking cash soon.
Electronics is featured fairly prominently in the store. You can buy a Ring Security system, various Kindles, Echos etc. There was also a fairly large display of Google Chromebooks. And employees were at the ready to answer any questions about them. Someone was right there as soon as I stopped at the Ring table display. Okay, I found that a bit annoying because sometimes I just like to look around. But employees weren’t pushy, just asking if they could answer any questions so it didn't bother me too much.
I didn’t buy anything, but it was a fun field trip. I suspect I won’t be frequenting the store because it doesn’t carry enough things that interest me.
Have any of you visited any of the Amazon bricks and mortar stores (Amazon Books, Amazon Go, Amazon 4-Star and Presented by Amazon)?
An interesting perspective. Thanks! I was wondering what their stores would be like. It's nice they're doing something more constructive than eating every other booksellers' lunch. At least with a physical store the playing field is a little more level.
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