Amazon workers to walk out at second depot following strike vote

The GMB union said more than 100 staff at the Amazon Rugeley fulfilment centre are set to strike after 86% voted to back the walkouts.

An Amazon spokesperson told Retail Week that “only 43 GMB members, not over 100” voted in favour of industrial action out of a warehouse population of 1,000.

They added that Amazon regularly reviews and increases hourly employee wages and has so far invested £125m in pay rises for UK hourly paid workers in less than a year.

The announcement of the new strikes follows news that GMB reached 1,000 members at the Coventry fulfilment centre. Workers have reached a total of 22 strike days over pay and working conditions, and will continue to walk out for months.

GMB will now plan strike dates at the Rugeley site as it builds momentum in getting other depots to join.

GMB senior organiser Stuart Richards said: “This is a game-changing moment in the campaign to force Amazon to treat its workers like human beings.

“They’ve thrown everything at stopping this, but workers at Amazon Rugeley have organised and delivered a clear message that they demand fair pay and union rights.

“We’ve seen one of the world’s wealthiest companies, offering UK workers a pay rise of pennies and work conditions fit only for the history books.

“It’s staggering that Amazon is still trousering millions from the British taxpayer whilst treating UK workers with disdain.

“As GMB members in Rugeley plan for the picket line, it’s time for politicians and decision-makers to finally confront the facts. 

“If Amazon workers are being forced to the breadline by low pay, then why should the public purse be open to Amazon.”

An Amazon spokesperson said: “We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits. In less than a year, our minimum pay has risen by 10% and by more than 37% since 2018. 

“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.”