Amazon has launched an experimental program in West Plains, intended to speed up delivery times in sparsely populated areas.
The Hub Delivery Partner Program is taking business referrals in just 10 states, among them, Missouri and Arkansas, according to Amazon.
Todd Ghys works for Amazon and will speak Tuesday at a Lunch and Learn event for small businesses to learn more about the program to see if it’s right for them.
Ghys is a native of Missouri, attended Missouri State University in Springfield and lives in Republic with his wife and two kids.
“Amazon is excited to expand the Delivery Partner Program to the area this summer,” he said.
He explained how the new program works: Businesses partner with Amazon to help deliver packages in the local community.
“We’re building a revolutionary partnership with small businesses who can utilize their existing space and staff to deliver packages throughout their community,” Ghys said. “No logistics experience is required, and you get paid for every package delivered.”
West Plains is among the first U.S. cities Amazon has chosen to launch the new program.
“This is an ideal opportunity for small businesses to generate additional revenue and grow their business,” Ghys said.
The Lunch and Learn event is free, but registration is required to cover food and drink.
The event will take place at noon Tuesday at Hampton Inn, 1064 London Lane.
To register for the event, visit eventbrite.com and type in West Plains for the location. The event name is “About Amazon! Delivery Partner Program : Lunch & Learn - West Plains, MO.”
Amazon has plans to expand the program into more cities.
“We are continually growing this program to empower more entrepreneurs to create jobs and deliver for their communities,” said company officials. “We are expanding our delivery services and infrastructure in areas where we have sufficient package volume to support the work of delivery service partner companies.”
The program offers onboarding and launch education before a delivery station opens or becomes available.
For more information, visit logistics.amazon.com.
