Whole Foods ramps up expansion

What you probably already know: Whole Foods is planning to expand this year. The company has 75 new stores in development and plans to open 30 or more a year moving forward.

Why? The grocery chain, which was acquired by Amazon seven years ago, has had some steady expansion over the years but is ramping that up despite the challenges the industry faces around inflation.

What it means: Whole Foods is trying out more small stores in urban areas. Interestingly, this comes as Amazon closes many of its Fresh and Go stores, many of which featured the “Just Walk Out” technology that is now being phased out.

What happens now? Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel said in an interview with Yahoo Finance that the stores will feature Amazon’s new Dash Carts, which allow you to weigh items and check out as you shop. The carts are already in use in six Whole Foods stores.