Amazon has appointed Whole Foods Market (WFM) CEO Jason Buechel as its new vice president of worldwide grocery stores, taking on an expanded responsibility at the technology giant.

Buechel, who has been with Amazon-owned Whole Foods Market since 2013, previously held roles including chief operations officer, providing operational leadership over all of the retailer’s physical stores, as well as overseeing its technology, supply chain and distribution, store real estate and design, and HR functions. His promotion will see his remit expanded to take on new responsibilities alongside his existing role.

Worldwide Amazon Stores CEO Doug Herrington said: “Jason has unlocked our ability to make high-quality natural and organic groceries more affordable and accessible to customers, helping WFM achieve record sales growth and expand to over 535 locations”.

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Herrington continued: “I am incredibly energised by our momentum in grocery. We continue to be focused on great selection and value at Whole Foods Market, Amazon Fresh, and Amazon Go. We’re getting great feedback on our new and redesigned Amazon Fresh stores.

“Jason will be a fantastic leader to take the team forward and deliver on the solid 2025 plans the team has built.”

In comes after Amazon Fresh opened its first UK store in a year in November, following three site closures in 2023.

The store, which opened in West Hampstead, houses hundreds of items including fresh meat, poultry, fish, dairy, fruit, vegetables, bakery products, household brands, the retailer’s own label food brand and premium grocery range ‘Our Selection’.