By: Hal C Clarke

Amazon faced challenges in the wake of the pandemic but remained committed to its expansion in New York City. In March 2020, just before the pandemic hit, the e-commerce giant finalized a deal to acquire the historic Lord & Taylor flagship store on Fifth Avenue for $1.15 billion. The timing was critical, as a day later, the real estate market was severely affected by the pandemic. Despite the uncertain circumstances, Amazon decided to move forward with its plan to establish a premier office space in the iconic building.

The NY Post reported on this development.

Previously, Amazon had abandoned its HQ2 project in Queens due to opposition from politicians, including left wing-ultra ANTIFA Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. However, the company remained determined to invest in office space in New York City. The newly acquired 11-story Italian Renaissance Revival tower, which is 109 years old, will be transformed into a luxurious office building for approximately 2,000 employees. Exclusive video footage obtained by The Post revealed that the renovated space would feature a landscaped rooftop with trees, an indoor dining area, and even a dog run. Amazon aims to create an office environment that addresses concerns employees may have about returning to in-person work.

John Schoettler, Amazon’s vice president of global real estate and facilities, expressed pride in the company’s investment in the New York Tech Hub and announced that they would welcome the first batch of employees to the new office at 424 Fifth Avenue later in the summer. Amazon had purchased the building from a joint venture involving WeWork’s owner, the hedge fund Rhone Capital, and Hudson’s Bay Co., the parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue. The original plan was to convert the building into WeWork’s New York headquarters, but due to WeWork’s subsequent struggles, the plan fell through.

The refurbished tower, situated at the corner of West 38th Street, is expected to begin accommodating employees as early as the following month. The rooftop amenities will include an upscale indoor cafeteria and lounge area with spacious seating, along with panoramic city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop will also feature illuminated paths for employees to enjoy during breaks and a dog run for the furry companions of Amazon employees.

Zach Goldsztejn, an Amazon spokesperson, confirmed that the employees from Amazon’s Tech Hub, which includes departments such as Amazon Web Services, stores, finance, and legal, will be relocating to the new office space from multiple locations in Manhattan, Jersey City, and Newark. Goldsztejn also mentioned that Amazon would continue to rent offices in other Manhattan locations, including Hudson Yards.

While renovations on the Lord & Taylor building are nearing completion, the retail space remains unfinished, and tenants are yet to be confirmed. However, local business supporters are excited about Amazon’s expanded presence in Midtown Manhattan. Dan Biederman, president of both the Bryant Park Corporation and the 34th Street Partnership, expressed optimism about Amazon’s impact on nearby Bryant Park and highlighted the company’s significant financial support for the park’s programming during the pandemic, amounting to over $600,000.