Amazon is facing the threat of industrial action by some of its workers over pay. The GMB union said more than 300 employees at an Amazon warehouse in voted in a consultative ballot that they are prepared to take action.
A formal strike ballot would have to be held before any action is taken. The GMB said it will now meet members to discuss the next steps, including a potential formal strike ballot.
Senior organiser Amanda Gearing said: “Amazon workers are rightly furious and they are ready to walk out. They’re being offered a 35p-an-hour increase during the worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation – and that’s from a company worth more than £1 trillion.
“If Amazon wants to keep its empire running, it needs to get round the table with GMB to improve the pay and conditions of workers.”
Amazon said in a statement: “Starting pay for Amazon employees has increased to a minimum of between £10.50 and £11.45 an hour, depending on location.
“This represents a 29 per cent increase in the minimum hourly wage paid to Amazon associates since 2018.
“On top of this, employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package that includes private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, subsidised meals, an employee discount and more, which combined are worth thousands of pounds annually, as well as a company pension plan.”
