Getting Lost in the Jungle: Amazon’s Role as a Frenemy with the Retail Industry

For many, the world of retail can often feel like a jungle. If you are a retailer wandering in, you might get lost or, even worse, consumed by a bigger predator that lurks behind the sprawling landscape.

“I grew up studying the Amazon jungle, it’s a dangerous place. There are predators, and all of the symbolisms,” said Bob Cole, owner of Philadelphia-based electronics retailer World Wide Stereo. “My relationship with Amazon is like the jungle. I grew up in the jungle so I don’t know any better. I know there are things that are trying to take me out, so I’m not afraid of the jungle.”

Cole, like many modern-day retailers, utilizes the e-commerce giant for its logistics and infrastructure, but its services are relatively new to the industry.