How to Become an Amazon Vendor (The Fast Track to Scale)

Becoming an Amazon vendor sounds like a badge of honor. But the Vendor Central route isn’t right for every brand. This post shows you how to get invited, what to expect, and smarter paths that might give you more control.

What Is an Amazon Vendor?

As a vendor (1P), Amazon buys your products wholesale and sells them to customers. You don’t control pricing, retail content, or fulfillment. You operate through Vendor Central.

How to Become an Amazon Vendor

• There’s no public application—Amazon invites brands directly

• You’ll need a proven sales history, strong brand equity, and catalog readiness

• Most invites come through buyer outreach, trade shows, or performance referrals

  
  

Benefits of Becoming an Amazon Vendor

• Massive scale backed by Amazon logistics

• Amazon-sold badge builds instant trust

• Access to dedicated Vendor Central features

• Simplified procurement with recurring POs

• Seamless integration with Fifth Shelf's CSP support

Hybrid and Growth-Partner Models

• Use 1P for core SKUs, 3P for new launches

• Work with Fifth Shelf to onboard, test, and scale with less risk

• Tap our DWP model to shift SKUs to 3P while protecting visibility

  
  

• Read our guide to Vendor Central

• See the full Amazon 1P Strategy

• Talk to us about hybrid setups