August 24: The history of Amazon (part 2 of 5)

From 2000 to 2005, Amazon focused on offering convenience services—like free shipping—and expanding internationally.

Source: CNN and Fact of the Day 1
Published: October 2018 and August 2021

The history of Amazon (part 2 of 5)

Amazon’s early years were spent establishing itself in the online market as a source for books, music, and media. From 2000 to 2005, Amazon focused on offering convenience services—like free shipping—and expanding internationally.

New century, new approaches

2000: Amazon stays afloat during the dot-com bust and launches Marketplace, allowing third-party sellers on the site.

2001: International sales grow to 25% of total sales; UK and Germany are top foreign markets.

2002: Super Saver Shipping offers free shipping for $99+ orders. Amazon begins selling clothing.

2003: First full-year net profit announced ($73 million).

2004: Amazon enters the Chinese market by acquiring Joyo.

2005: Amazon Prime launches, offering free 2-day shipping in the US for $79/year.

Jeff Bezos in France in 2000. Photo: Yves Forestier/Sygma via Getty Images

A book’s Amazon.com product detail page as of January 2000. Source: Ganesh Baskaran

A 2005 letter from Jeff Bezos announcing Amazon Prime to customers on Amazon.com.

The Amazon.com home page as of September 2005. Source: Version Museum