This archive report was first published on 30 November 2019.
On November 30, 2019, The New York Times published an article highlighting Amazon's profound impact on the city of Baltimore.
According to Amy Webb, author of 'The Big Nine,' Amazon's influence is 'invisible infrastructure' that powers everyday lives. 'Most of us don't know 95 percent of what Amazon is doing,' she said.
Webb criticized the contest for Amazon's second headquarters, calling it a 'ridiculous parade, a beauty contest' where communities offered inducements without assessing costs and benefits. She described Amazon as a 'nation-state' due to its capabilities, market sway, and long-term strategy.
A River Through Commerce and Culture ¶
Amazon's journey began in 1994 when Jeff Bezos chose the name 'Amazon' for his online bookseller. The name was inspired by the world's largest river by volume, which appealed to Bezos' ambitions.
Today, Amazon has expanded into various areas of life, driven by customers' addiction to convenience and speedy delivery. The company's relentless focus on data, unforgiving employment practices, and omnivorous competition have made it a dominant force in many homes and businesses.
Greater Baltimore accounts for one percent of Amazon's sales nationwide, but as a transportation hub, it punches above its weight, originating 2.38 percent of Amazon's shipments in the United States.
Despite being a significant player in the local economy, Amazon ranks only 14th among local employers. However, its presence is ubiquitous, with many Baltimoreans relying on the company for their daily needs.
