Amazon Prime Prices in Europe are going up

To adequately offset the increased cost of goods and shipping prices, e-commerce giant Amazon is all set to raise the annual fee for its Prime membership anywhere between 20% and 43% in Europe.

In an official release, a company spokesperson said that the regional price would apply to existing subscribers from September 15, 2022, in UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Subscribers who pay monthly fees will pay up to one pound extra and one euro in other locations, the release mentioned.

“There are a number of factors that impact the price of Prime,” the Amazon statement read, stating that the inflation in Europe was impacting the general and material cost rises including external factors, such as the cost of goods, as well as the increased cost of shipping.

Rationalising the European fee hikes, that tailgate a Prime price hike in the USA in February, Amazon said the service still offered “a great value for members”.

The online shopping giant asserted that its combination of convenience, competitive pricing and inventory selection, and growing portfolio of entertainment benefits was unmatched. “We continue to make Prime faster, offering more selection for fast Prime delivery and are expanding our delivery capabilities,” the company’s statement said.

Where is the most hike?

Officially, Amazon’s spokesperson said, French consumers will see the largest increase, a 43% hike from 5.99 euros to 6.99 euros monthly or 49.00 euros to 69.90 euros annually, followed by 38% increases in Italy and Spain, 30% in Germany, and 20% in the United Kingdom.

The post-increase Prime fees will still be lower than the current $139 annual charge that consumers in the U.S. now pay.

As far as how many consumers will be affected, the company said it does not disclose regional and country-specific subscriber numbers.