Amazon workers in the United Kingdom are set to initiate a strike on Black Friday, a day notorious for being one of the busiest shopping days of the year, News About Nigeria reports.
Members of the GMB union, stationed at Amazon’s Coventry site, will stage a walkout and establish picket lines outside the facility as part of their prolonged dispute over pay.
This Black Friday marks the 28th day of industrial action in the ongoing conflict. The GMB union estimates that over 1,000 workers at the Coventry site will participate, making it a historic day of protest.
Simultaneously, strikes and demonstrations are planned in other European countries and the United States, creating what unions anticipate will be the most extensive day of action in Amazon’s history.
Amanda Gearing, an official from the GMB, emphasised the significance of the day, stating, “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.”
She added that despite Amazon’s claims of business as usual, this day will witness the most massive industrial disruption in the company’s history.
Amazon, in response, said that the strike would not disrupt customer services.
The company highlighted its efforts to provide competitive wages and benefits, with a planned increase in minimum starting pay by April 2024.
Amazon’s spokesperson also cited benefits such as private medical insurance, life assurance, subsidised meals, and employee discounts.
The ongoing dispute underscores the growing global movement among Amazon workers, with demonstrations resonating across continents.
As the largest day of action against Amazon unfolds, it reflects the determination of workers to prompt the company to address their concerns and instigate positive changes.
