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Unions have announced that Amazon employees will go on strike during Black Friday, marking the largest interruption in the company’s 30-year existence.
Approximately 1,150 employees at Amazon’s distribution center in Coventry will participate in a strike due to concerns about compensation and working conditions.
The unions claim that employees are exhausted from barely making enough money to get by and having to walk long distances every day for their jobs.
The Amazon UK operations in Coventry are highly active, being one of only two similar sites. There are growing worries about how the strike will affect customers on what is usually one of the busiest days of the year.
Employees from the United States, Germany, and Italy are anticipated to participate in the protest, which is a component of what labor unions refer to as a “worldwide movement” for improved wages and work conditions. Demonstrations are also predicted to occur throughout the United States and Europe.
Employees are requesting for Amazon executives to address their demands for improved wages and working environment.
Millions of customers are anticipated to participate in Black Friday sales on November 24, with Amazon extending the shopping period for deals compared to last year’s event.
However, employees are stating that the company’s treatment of its employees is unacceptable.
A worker informed The Independent that the strikes had united workers, but for many, the circumstances were dire.
My coworker mentioned that some of her coworkers are juggling multiple jobs and not spending much time with their families. Despite Amazon being one of the wealthiest companies and its founder focusing on space exploration, the employees responsible for its success are struggling financially and resorting to food banks and selling possessions to get by.
She stated that the job at the company was exhausting both physically and mentally, as she had to lift heavy objects for ten hours every night, resulting in injuries.
Regarding mental health, she stated that the impact was comparable: “You consistently have superiors approaching you, informing you that your rate is low, or you’re placed on a line with other underachievers, and it does have a negative effect on individuals’ mental well-being.”
“Being required to work extended hours results in a lack of opportunity and time to engage in beneficial activities.”
According to the GMB union, which represents employees, The Independent was informed that workers were dissatisfied with Amazon executives’ refusal to address salary and working circumstances, despite ongoing efforts for several months.
A representative from The Independent stated that the request is straightforward – for the company to have a conversation with them. Despite it being a reasonable ask, Amazon executives have declined to engage in dialogue.
This is a damning accusation against the company. It is disgraceful that Amazon has not taken action on this issue.
The business stated that the strike would greatly affect its financial status during a peak season.
According to Amanda Gearing, a GMB organizer, this year’s Black Friday will result in the biggest day of industrial disruption in the 30-year history of Amazon.
According to Amazon, the strike will have no impact on customers.
“Coventry serves as a crucial hub in Amazon’s distribution network. Any strike that occurs on Black Friday will have a ripple effect on the company’s logistics in the UK.”
However, Amazon reassured that this action would not impact customers. The company stated to The Independent: “There will be no inconvenience to customers. Our Coventry location does not directly handle orders for customers.”
The company addressed employees’ worries by stating that they frequently assess compensation in order to provide competitive pay and benefits.
It was stated that our minimum starting pay will reach £12.30 and £13 per hour by April 2024, with the exact amount varying based on location. This marks a 20% increase over the course of two years and a 50% increase since 2018.
We are dedicated to offering outstanding perks, fostering a supportive workplace, and creating amazing chances for career development.
“Many individuals are drawn to working at Amazon for various reasons, whether it be their initial employment, a temporary position, or a chance to progress in their career.”
Source: independent.co.uk
