Amazon warehouse staff throughout the UK are reportedly “yearning for change,” as more than 3,000 workers at its Coventry site participate in a vote over trade union recognition.
Speaking to Retail Week, a GMB union representative insisted there was an “appetite to make changes at Amazon in every fulfilment centre across the country”.
The representative claimed: “Workers have been pushed to the edge in fulfilment centres.”
“At the minute, we’re focusing on getting [the recognition vote] over the line, but Amazon workers across the country are yearning for that change.”
The news comes as Amazon employees take part in a ballot to enable UK workers to collectively bargain for workers’ rights.
Earlier this week, Amazon employees also protested outside its warehouses, with demonstrations taking place outside seven of its distribution centres in North and South of England, Wales and Scotland.
According to GMB, if the majority of staff vote for union recognition, the ecommerce giant will be forced to negotiate terms, conditions and pay with the trade union.
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The ballot result is expected to be announced on 15 July, after closing on 13 July.
An Amazon spokesperson said: “Our employees have the choice of whether or not to join a union. They always have. We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits.
“Our minimum starting pay has increased to £12.30 and £13 per hour depending on location; that’s a 20% increase over two years and 50% since 2018.”
They added: “We also work hard to provide great benefits, a positive work environment and excellent career opportunities.
“These are just some of the reasons people want to come and work at Amazon, whether it’s their first job, a seasonal role or an opportunity for them to advance their career.”
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