Why did Tesco buy former Amazon Fresh sites?

Tesco is adding five London locations to speed up its Express rollout in high-traffic areas. These sites fit top-up shopping and food-to-go, where Clubcard pricing and own-brand ranges can lift mix. It is a targeted way to grow convenience without building from scratch, using proven city footprints.

How does this affect UK convenience retail?

The move tilts competition toward assortment, value, and availability. With fewer Amazon Fresh UK stores, pressure shifts from tech-led concepts to everyday execution. Tesco’s larger Express network could raise expectations on pricing and fresh, while rivals respond with delivery tie-ins, local curation, and sharper promotions.

What are the key investor metrics to watch?

Focus on like-for-like sales in Express, visit frequency, average basket, and own-brand share. Track conversion timelines, waste rates, and staff hours per store. Monitor Clubcard participation and London delivery coverage from Express nodes. Sustained improvement through 2026–2027 would indicate a successful conversion programme.

Will this change prices for shoppers?

Prices are set by competition and buying scale. More Express stores can support sharper shelf prices through better procurement and promotions, especially via Clubcard deals. Shoppers may also see stronger availability and meal solutions. Any price shifts should reflect local market dynamics rather than the site conversions alone.

Global Market Insights

February 10: Tesco Buys Amazon Fresh Sites to Scale Express Network

ByDanny Kontos February 10, 2026February 10, 2026

Amazon Fresh is back in focus as Tesco acquires five former sites in London to speed up its Express rollout. This move leans into UK convenience retail, where quick top-up trips, food-to-go, and long opening hours drive steady demand. For investors, the deal suggests store-led growth, stronger local footfall, and better scale in dense postcodes. It also underscores Amazon Fresh UK stores pulling back from physical grocery, shifting the balance of power toward established chains with proven execution.