Amazon opens new Scottish call centre

Amazon is opening a new contact centre in Edinburgh this summer, creating 900 jobs. The move comes as the online retailer expands its UK operation into new areas such as groceries and sports equipment.

The centre, which will handle internet and telephone enquiries for Amazon.co.uk and technical support for Amazon Kindle and MP3 services, will bring 500 permanent and 400 temporary jobs to the city and is expected to open in August. The move is supported by a £1.8m grant from Scottish Development International to train staff and fit out the premises.

Allan Lyall, vice-president of European operations and customer service at Amazon, said: “As our business continues to grow and we move into new areas like grocery, sports and clothing, our customer services support needs to expand as well.” He said the new centre would help it provide, “the high standards of customer service that shoppers at Amazon.co.uk expect.”

Scotland’s first minister Alex Salmond said: “Amazon has a substantial presence in Scotland and this announcement is testament to the quality, strength and skills of its Scottish workforce. This news provides a significant boost to the local economy, creates 900 jobs in the heart of Edinburgh, and demonstrates the company’s commitment to working in Scotland.”

The company already has a substantial presence in Scotland with operations in Gourock, Glenrothes and South Queensferry. In January, Amazon announced that it would create a further 950 jobs in Scotland.

“When a world-leading company like Amazon chooses to invest in Scotland, it sends a message to the rest of the world that Scotland is a world-class destination,” said Danny Cusick, president of the Americas for Scottish Development International.