Amazon has made an astonishing contribution of around £2.6 billion in investment across Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire since 2010, according to its newly released Economic Impact Report. This extensive commitment underscores Amazon’s regional economic role, from job creation to supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
The 2024 Amazon UK Economic Impact Hub, launched today, provides a breakdown of these investments, revealing their ripple effects across local economies and industries. In total, Amazon has channelled over £2.9 billion into the South West, spurring an estimated £2.8 billion boost to the area’s GDP through the production of goods and services over the past 14 years.
Beyond economic stimulus, Amazon has also created over 5,000 jobs across the South West, offering roles for both full-time and part-time employees. With a focus on skills development, Amazon has facilitated employability training for more than 600 individuals, alongside its Amazon Apprenticeship programme, which has qualified over 350 apprentices since 2010.
Locally, Amazon has empowered over 2,600 small and medium-sized businesses in the South West to establish themselves as independent selling partners on its platform, allowing these enterprises to reach international markets and drive local prosperity. In 2023 alone, small businesses in the region achieved over £95 million in export sales, while the wider South West community saw exports worth over £200 million.
David Tindal, General Manager of Amazon Swindon, commented on Amazon’s role in the community: “We’re passionate about supporting the regional economy and the wider South West community through investments, job creation, charity donations, and volunteering. Amazon continues to make a positive impact, including upskilling our employees and helping small businesses in our community reach new heights.”
Amazon’s influence extends beyond the economy, as Tindal highlighted the company’s support for several Swindon-based organisations. From Swindon Night Shelter to Cancer Research UK and Seven Fields Primary School, Amazon employees have volunteered, donated products, and provided financial aid to these important causes. “We’re excited to continue supporting good causes over the coming months while we deliver for customers, sellers, and communities,” Tindal added.
For more on Amazon’s UK investments, visit the Amazon Economic Impact Hub.
