🛒 Amazon Adds PayPal to Buy with Prime
Amazon's Buy with Prime program has expanded its payment options to include PayPal. This move allows Prime members to use PayPal when checking out on third-party websites that have integrated the Buy with Prime API. Announced on September 18, 2024, this update marks a significant step in Amazon's efforts to make online shopping more convenient for its users. By next year, Amazon will also enable Prime members to link their Amazon accounts to PayPal, ensuring that Prime benefits apply automatically whenever PayPal is used.
📈 Growth and New Features
Launched in April 2022, Buy with Prime has been growing steadily, according to Amazon. The company reports a 45% increase in orders year-over-year, with 50% more Prime members using the service compared to the previous year. Major brands like Dollar Shave Club and IZOD have signed on to offer Buy with Prime, highlighting the program's appeal. Additionally, Amazon announced real-time delivery estimates in TikTok ads for Buy with Prime merchants and a unified checkout experience for Shopify stores.
⚠️ Challenges and Skepticism
Despite Amazon's positive outlook, some industry experts remain cautious. Juozas Kaziukėnas of Marketplace Pulse points out that the requirement for brands to store inventory in Amazon warehouses is a significant barrier to entry. This requirement has even led Shopify to initially discourage its merchants from using Buy with Prime. Critics argue that, while the program is expanding, it remains a niche service compared to other payment and fulfillment options available to online retailers.
🔗 What’s Next for Buy with Prime?
As Amazon continues to innovate with its Buy with Prime program, the introduction of PayPal and other new features could attract more merchants and customers. However, overcoming the logistical challenges associated with inventory storage will be crucial for broader adoption. Amazon's ability to address these challenges while continuing to enhance the program's offerings will determine its success in the competitive e-commerce landscape. As the company rolls out these updates, the industry will be watching closely to see how Buy with Prime evolves.
Will Amazon's PayPal integration make Buy with Prime mainstream?
