Kohl’s, Amazon partnership ramps up

Menomonee Falls, Wis.-based Kohl’s is hoping that Seattle-based Amazon can help the department store chain reignite sales.

Kohl’s said on Monday that it is now accepting Amazon returns at its more than 1,100 stores after running a pilot program in 100 locations. The retailer, which will pack, label and ship the returns for free, expects the program to benefit millions of shoppers along with bringing more people into its stores.

The two companies reached a partnership agreement two years ago that allowed Amazon’s customers to return packages at its stores in Chicago and Los Angeles. Now, the companies are agreeing to expand that partnership this summer to more stores, which preceded another announcement by the two companies that Kohl’s would feature Amazon devices in 200 locations.

The partnership allows Kohl’s to increase foot traffic to its stores, while it solves Amazon’s problem of requiring its customers to take their returns to the post office. According to a Bloomberg article, Amazon may add private label groceries and apparel to the electronics it already sells at Kohl’s.

Last year Kohl's and ALDI announced a partnership in which ALDI will open in up to 10 Kohl's stores around the country.