The Amazon Fresh store in Manassas, Virginia, will close permanently on Sunday, marking the end of its short run as the largest Amazon grocery store in the nation. The store, located at 7807 Sudley Road, opened in 2022 and quickly became known for its size and innovative ‘just walk out’ technology.
Since the closure announcement on Thursday customers have flocked to the location to take advantage of ‘90% off’ closing sales.
An Amazon spokesperson stated, “Certain store locations work better than others, and after an assessment of our offering, we’ve decided to close our Amazon Fresh store in Manassas. We remain committed to Amazon Fresh, and our broader grocery strategy, and will continue to refine our portfolio of stores as we learn which locations and features resonate most with customers.” The spokesperson did not provide specific reasons for the closure.
The Manassas store, which opened with significant media attention, spanned 45,000 square feet. Customers could enter the store, and Amazon’s system used artificial intelligence and a network of cameras to track purchases, eliminating the need for traditional checkout lines.
This closure follows other shifts in Amazon’s physical retail strategy. In 2022, Amazon scaled back its retail outlets, closing Amazon Books and “4-Star” stores while also decreasing the number of Amazon Go convenience stores. Early 2023 saw the closure of some Amazon Fresh locations. In August 2023, Amazon unveiled plans to redesign its Amazon Fresh stores, focusing on “grab-and-go” prepared foods and adding features like in-store Krispy Kreme donut outlets.
The Manassas store’s closure will impact its 150 employees, who Amazon says will be “supported” through the transition, but no specifics were offered. While the Manassas location is closing, Amazon continues to expand its physical presence. Another Amazon Fresh store is scheduled to open in Silver Spring, Maryland, on Thursday, March 27. There are five remaining Amazon Fresh stores in Virginia, located in Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Franconia, and Lorton.
