Retailers ready for 'war' with Amazon

CANBERRA - Australian electronics and homeware retailers are preparing for the invasion of US online giant Amazon, with some vowing to take the fight to the store.

Last week, Amazon confirmed its rapid Australian expansion by announcing that it was searching for a site to build its "fulfillment center" - a large warehouse for storing and shipping goods purchased online - but local retailers, including Harvey Norman's founder Gerry Harvey, has said he will make it hard for Amazon to succeed Down Under.

Harvey Norman sells electronics, furniture and bedding - all markets in which Amazon hopes to hold a stake, but Harvey has said that he will happily go toe-to-toe with the giant to maintain his share in the Australian market.