Amazon expected to launch Argos-style click-and-collect service called Amazon Flex

Signs inside a new Amazon warehouse in Kirkland, Seattle, suggest the etailer is preparing to allow customers to pick up their own packages from inner-city locations.

Tech blog Geekwire has published a picture of an Amazon Flex-branded sign that says “please take a ticket located behind you. Please look for your number on the top corner of the wall on your left. Proceed to pick up your package once your number is displayed.”

Amazon has not yet responded to a request for comment.

The warehouse the sign was spotted in is understood to be a warehouse for the company’s Prime Now service, which allows customers to receive deliveries within one hour.

Prime Now is yet to launch in Seattle, but is expected to launch imminently.

The potential launch of a click-and-collect service comes after The Wall Street Journal reported in October that Amazon was setting up a New York store after being inspired by Argos’ partnership with eBay.

The Amazon Flex service would be the latest fulfilment innovation from the etailer, which is currently pushing hard for regulatory approval for drone deliveries.

Boss Jeff Bezos recently revealed in an interview with The Telegraph that he expected drone deliveries to arrive in the UK before the US because of the UK aviation regulator’s more relaxed approach to drones.

Amazon is also gearing up for a launch of its Fresh grocery proposition in the UK, which is expected to launch in Hackney, London, next month.