Amazon Announces £40 Billion Pound Investment in UK Expansion Plans

In a significant move that underscores its commitment to the British market, Amazon has unveiled plans to invest £40 billion in the UK over the next three years. The e-commerce behemoth’s strategic expansion includes the construction of four state-of-the-art robotic fulfilment centres and substantial upgrades to its Berkshire film studios.

The ambitious programme will establish new warehousing facilities across strategic locations, with confirmed sites in the East Midlands, Northampton, and Hull. The fourth location remains under consideration. Each facility promises to generate 2,000 jobs with competitive starting salaries of £28,000 per annum.

The investment package encompasses a previously announced £8 billion allocation for Amazon Web Services’ data centre operations, positioning the company to capitalise on growing artificial intelligence infrastructure demands. The timing aligns with global tech firms’ rush to enhance digital capabilities amidst surging AI requirements.

John Boumphrey, Amazon’s UK country manager, emphasised the strategic importance of geographical distribution, stating the expansion would significantly increase same-day delivery capabilities across Britain. The company’s commitment extends beyond logistics, with substantial investment in the creative sector through the renovation of Bray Film Studios, acquired in July 2024.

The investment marks a crucial development for Britain’s employment landscape, with Amazon already ranking among the UK’s top ten private employers, supporting 75,000 jobs. The company’s expansion plans include over 1,000 full-time apprenticeship opportunities this year, demonstrating its commitment to workforce development.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the announcement as “another major win” for Britain, while Amazon CEO Andy Jassy highlighted the company’s 27-year history of service to UK customers. The investment decision reinforces the UK’s position as a preferred destination for major international business operations.