Amazon workers in Coventry have begun a three-day strike in a dispute over pay.
More than 1,000 GMB union members at the retail firm are taking part in industrial action today (Tuesday 13), Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 February, to earn £15 an hour and union rights.
UK Amazon workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of further strikes in January this year, having taken over 30 days of industrial action in the past 12 months.
Amanda Gearing, GMB senior organiser, said: “The campaign to win £15 an hour and union rights at Amazon is growing stronger every day.
“[This] week will mark the start of months of industrial chaos and Amazon is fast running out of options.
“It’s time for Amazon to listen to our members, it’s time for £15.”
Amazon's minimum starting pay is between £11.80 and £12.50 per hour depending on location for all full-time, part-time and seasonal roles, and is due to increase in April. The increases represent a total £170 million investment in pay.
An Amazon spokesperson said: “We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits. By April, our minimum starting pay will have increased to £12.30 and £13 per hour depending on location, that’s a 20% increase over two years and 50% 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.”
