Employees at Amazon in the United Kingdom are set to initiate a strike on Black Friday, a day known for heightened shopping activity, as part of an ongoing disagreement regarding compensation.
GMB union members at Amazon’s Coventry facility plan to go on strike, staging a picket line outside the center, with the industrial action on Friday not expected to impact customers, according to Amazon.
Simultaneous strikes and demonstrations are occurring in various European nations and the U.S., marking what unions claim to be the most significant day of action in Amazon’s history.
The GMB reported that over 1,000 workers at the Coventry site will participate in the strike, marking the 28th day of action in the ongoing dispute.
A protest will also be held outside Amazon’s UK head office in London.
GMB official Amanda Gearing, said: “Today will go down as a turning point in Amazon’s history.”
“Working people who make Amazon’s business model possible stand up to demand their share of the company’s enormous wealth.”
“Despite that, Amazon bosses are desperate to claim it will be business as usual for Amazon and their customers this Black Friday.”
“The truth is that today will see the largest day of industrial disruption in Amazon’s history.”
“With industrial action escalating and workers joining strike action in Europe and the USA, it’s clear this strike is inspiring Amazon workers worldwide to fight to force the company to change its ways.”
An Amazon spokesperson said: “There will be no disruption to customers.
“We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits.
“By April 2024, our minimum starting pay will have increased to £12.30 ($15.41) and £13 per hour depending on location.
“That’s a 20 per cent increase over two years and 50 per cent 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.”
Amazon stated that its wage rates surpass both the National Living Wage and the voluntary Real Living Wage. Additionally, the company provides benefits such as private medical insurance, life assurance, subsidized meals, and an employee discount.