Independent sellers drive $5 billion in Georgia sales via Amazon

Small businesses in Georgia rely on Amazon to expand their reach, generating $5 billion in economic activity last year. Will Cowsert, Amazon's director of economic development, stated that independent sellers accounted for more than 60 percent of total sales on the platform. He noted that these businesses moved over 75 million items in 2025, a figure he attributed to the company's global infrastructure.

Cowsert leads Amazon's economic development initiatives in the Southeast and several international markets. His role involves working with policymakers and real estate professionals to identify new locations for expansion. He also guides the growth of Amazon Air, the company's cargo airline, and Prime Air, its drone delivery service. His team focuses on integrating these logistics networks with local communities.

Amazon employs more than 4,000 people across six facilities in Gwinnett County. Cowsert argues that the company's impact extends beyond its own workforce to the independent retailers that use its tools. He said that local brands can use the platform to move from serving neighborhood customers to reaching a national audience. This allows smaller firms to compete with larger corporations using the same distribution systems.

The platform provides artificial intelligence tools that help sellers manage supply chains and analyze sales data. Cowsert said these features free up owner time for product creation. He advised business owners to experiment with the new services, noting that those who adopt the tools are currently seeing faster growth. The tools help coordinate sales across multiple channels and streamline inventory management.

RA Cosmetics, a family-owned beauty company based in Norcross, illustrates this growth. Since second-generation leadership began using more of Amazon's seller tools, the company's sales increased by 40 percent in a few years. The firm has become the largest importer of shea butter in the United States while remaining based in Gwinnett. It uses the platform to serve customers worldwide.

Amazon continues to invest in technology to speed up deliveries. Advanced robotics work alongside employees at the Stone Mountain fulfillment center to process orders. Last-mile delivery stations in Gwinnett help move packages to customers quickly. The company is preparing to introduce Prime Air drone delivery at the Stone Mountain facility. The service will deliver eligible items, including groceries and medications, in as little as 30 minutes.

Cowsert said Amazon is in expansion mode for its drone delivery service. He noted that the company is working to educate communities on the benefits of the technology. Internally, Amazon offers prepaid tuition programs and benefits that begin on the first day of employment. Externally, the company supports local STEM initiatives and participates in Partnership Gwinnett's Principal Field Trip program.

Cowsert credited the Gwinnett Chamber and local officials with creating a collaborative business environment. He said that support from the community is available with a single phone call. This cooperation, he stated, makes Gwinnett a distinct location for business operations compared to other areas he has worked in.