Amazon announced that it is opening a physical bookstore in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. According to Amazon spokeswoman Deborah Bass, the store, targeted to open next year, will be at 3443 N. Southport Ave., the former location of the now-closed Mystic Celt bar and restaurant.
“We are excited to be bringing Amazon Books to Southport in Chicago,” Bass told the Chicago Tribune.
Amazon opened its first brick-and-mortar bookstore in Seattle last fall. That was followed by announcements regarding openings in San Diego, the Portland, Ore. area, and New York City.
Amazon’s plan is to mix the benefits of online and offline book shopping, with a selection chosen based on local data, such as customer ratings, pre-order and sales figures, and its employees’ assessments. And title will be accompanied by reviews from Amazon shoppers, as they would be online. Customers can buy in-store or place an order for delivery. Amazon devices, such as the Kindle e-book reader and Fire Tablet, are also available for in-store testing.
Sandeep Mathrani, CEO of mall operator General Growth Properties, said during a call with investors earlier this year that Amazon planned to open up to 400 physical bookstores, but he later said his comments weren’t meant to represent Amazon’s plans.
RELATED: Amazon to Open Kansas City Fulfillment Center
