GREENVILLE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The world’s most valuable company has set-up shop right between Appleton and Greenville.
The $19 million facility opened its doors Wednesday.
On the heels of the first large Amazon building in the region, kicking off its first day, FOX 11 spoke to consumers about whether companies like Amazon have changed their shopping game during the pandemic.
Amazon vans were lined-up, and drivers were out delivering packages ordered the way many people are placing them – online.
“My online shopping has definitely increased,” Meagan Jenkins of Appleton said.
And she’s not the only one.
“I’ve actually done a lot of online shopping!” said Appleton resident Brooke Rogers.
How much is a lot?
An Adobe Analytics report shows shoppers spent more than $153 billion in April and May. That’s even higher than online orders during last year’s holiday season, and the pandemic might be why.
“I mean, I miss going to the mall; it’s something I like to do but, honestly, I’d rather do online, because it just feels safer,” Rogers said.
Jenkins tells FOX 11 it’s a little bit of fear that drives her to online shopping.
“With all the limitations, and all of the changes and things, it’s kind of a scary time. Kind of the fear of the unknown and not really wanting to expose my kids to what might happen when you’re out.”
Even with businesses reopening, shoppers like Rogers are flocking to the internet.
“I’m kinda venturing out again but, I mean, if I don’t have to, I’m really not going out much still.”
People say, they’re online shopping more, because of the ease and safety of it. Still, some say nothing beats the experience of in-person shopping.
“That’s just the kind of shopper I am,” said Jenkins. “I like to see things, feel things, and I enjoy people.”
And for those who don’t want to risk it, the Fox Valley’s new Amazon hub is finally here to deliver.
Safety inspections are now completed for an Amazon fulfillment center in Beloit.
The million-square-foot facility is the company’s third warehouse in the state.
The company plans to hire more than 500 full-time employees for the Beloit warehouse.
A grand opening is set for the fall.
