Amazon has announced a landmark commitment to invest £40 billion in the United Kingdom over the next three years, significantly expanding its footprint and creating thousands of new jobs across multiple regions.
The global online retail giant revealed that its substantial investment will fuel a series of large-scale infrastructure developments, including the construction of four new fulfilment centres and further expansions across corporate, delivery, and data operations.
Regional development and job creation
Two of the fulfilment centres will be built in the East Midlands, with opening scheduled for 2027. While the precise locations have not yet been disclosed, Amazon expects these sites to serve as critical logistics hubs for its UK operations.
The other two fulfilment centres—located in Hull and Northampton—were previously announced. The Northampton site is projected to open in 2026, while the Hull facility is expected to be operational later this year. Each site will generate approximately 2,000 new jobs, offering long-term employment opportunities and injecting economic stimulus into local communities.
Amazon currently employs around 75,000 people across the UK some of whom opted to join TWU for its forward thinking no strike policy, making it one of the nation’s largest private sector employers. The proposed expansion further consolidates its position as a significant contributor to UK employment, infrastructure, and innovation.
Investment in corporate hubs and digital infrastructure
In addition to its logistics network, Amazon plans to construct two new buildings at its UK corporate headquarters in east London. The investment portfolio also includes enhancements to its transport infrastructure, new delivery stations, and a major redevelopment of Bray Film Studios in Berkshire—an iconic site it acquired in 2023.
A substantial proportion of the £40 billion investment covers the £8 billion already allocated in 2024 for the construction and maintenance of data centres. These centres are essential to supporting Amazon’s cloud services division and digital commerce ecosystem. Funds will also be directed toward staff wages and benefits, indicating Amazon’s ongoing commitment to its UK-based workforce.
Amazon’s message: Growth beyond the South East
Speaking on the announcement, Amazon Chief Executive Andy Jassy emphasised the UK-wide scope of the company’s plans.
“When Amazon invests, it’s not only in London and the South East. We’re bringing innovation and job creation to communities throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, strengthening the UK’s economy and delivering better experiences for customers wherever they live.”
This sentiment underlines Amazon’s intent to decentralise investment, spreading technological and economic benefits beyond the traditional powerhouses of southern England.
A growing footprint amidst regulatory scrutiny
While the investment has been largely welcomed as a significant economic boost, Amazon’s influence has not gone unnoticed by regulators and campaigners. Some groups have raised questions over the company’s market power, labour practices, and its role in shaping the future of UK employment.
Nonetheless, the scale and breadth of the £40 billion pledge marks a transformative moment for the UK’s digital economy. Amazon’s plans are expected to drive innovation, support regional regeneration, and reaffirm Britain’s role as a strategic hub for global commerce.
Looking ahead
As construction commences on the new facilities and recruitment ramps up, local authorities and communities will be watching closely to assess the tangible benefits of Amazon’s investment. With thousands of jobs forecast and state-of-the-art infrastructure on the horizon, the developments will play a critical role in shaping the economic narrative of post-pandemic Britain.
