How Robots Are Reshaping Retail

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A recently leaked Amazon memo hinted at an internal fear: The ecommerce giant could run out of people to hire by 2024.

Shortly thereafter, Amazon issued a statement about new robotic technology in its fulfillment centers that is purportedly focused on enhancing employee safety.

In an email, a spokesperson called the memo a "draft document … used to test assumptions" and noted it "doesn't represent the actual situation" as Amazon continues to hire people to work alongside robots.

Indeed, the retail industry has increasingly embraced automation to fill roles previously held by human employees.

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This story first appeared in the July 25, 2022, issue of Adweek magazine. Click here to subscribe.

Lisa Lacy is Adweek's commerce editor.