We all know Amazon as the go-to place for almost everything under the sun, but how much do you really know about this online retail giant? Today, we’re diving into some lesser-known facts about Amazon that might just surprise you. Let’s set sail and uncover these hidden treasures!

1. Amazon Was Almost Called “Cadabra”

When Jeff Bezos first started Amazon, he wanted to name it “Cadabra,” as in “abracadabra.” However, his lawyer misheard it as “cadaver,” leading Bezos to choose a different name. After searching through a dictionary, he landed on “Amazon” because it was “exotic and different,” and it reflected the massive scale he envisioned for his business.

2. The First Item Sold on Amazon Was a Book

Amazon’s humble beginnings were in the book business. The first item ever sold on Amazon was a book titled Fluid Concepts and Creative Analogies by Douglas Hofstadter. Since then, Amazon has expanded to sell practically everything, but it all started with books.

3. Amazon’s Logo Has a Hidden Message

Have you ever noticed the smiley arrow in Amazon’s logo? It points from A to Z, symbolizing that Amazon offers everything from A to Z. The smile represents customer satisfaction, something Amazon prides itself on.

4. Amazon Owns More Than 40 Subsidiaries

Amazon is not just an online marketplace. It owns over 40 subsidiaries, including well-known companies like Whole Foods, Zappos, Audible, Twitch, and IMDb. These acquisitions have helped Amazon expand its reach into various industries.

5. Amazon’s Warehouse Robots

To keep up with the massive volume of orders, Amazon uses more than 200,000 robots in its warehouses. These robots help with tasks like sorting and transporting packages, making the fulfillment process faster and more efficient.

6. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Powers Much of the Internet

Amazon Web Services (AWS) might not be a household name, but it’s a crucial part of the internet’s infrastructure. AWS provides cloud computing services to some of the world’s largest companies, including Netflix, Airbnb, and NASA. In fact, a significant portion of Amazon’s profits comes from AWS.

7. Prime Membership’s Unexpected Origin

Amazon Prime, the popular subscription service, was initially introduced as a way to increase customer loyalty by offering free two-day shipping. Today, Prime offers a wide range of benefits, including access to Prime Video, Prime Music, and exclusive deals, making it a central part of Amazon’s strategy.

8. The Echo Device Was Inspired by Star Trek

The Amazon Echo, featuring the voice assistant Alexa, was inspired by the computer interface in Star Trek. Jeff Bezos wanted to create a voice-activated device that could answer questions and control smart home devices, just like the one on the starship Enterprise.

9. Amazon’s Original HQ Was in a Garage

Like many tech giants, Amazon started in a humble garage. Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in his garage in Bellevue, Washington. Today, Amazon’s headquarters, known as the Day 1 building, is located in Seattle and is a far cry from its modest beginnings.

10. Amazon’s Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Amazon is taking significant steps towards sustainability. The company aims to be net-zero carbon by 2040 and has ordered 100,000 electric delivery vehicles to reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, Amazon has invested in renewable energy projects to power its operations.

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There you have it, folks! Ten surprising facts about Amazon that showcase the company’s evolution from a small online bookstore to a global powerhouse. Keep these tidbits in mind next time you’re scrolling through deals on Amazon, and remember, there’s always more to discover about the companies we use every day.

Cheers to smart shopping and fun facts,

Thrifty Pirate