Coventry Amazon workers strike as union applies for forced recognition
Fresh industrial action begins today (19 March) as GMB members call for union recognition
Last updated 16th Apr 2024
Workers will down tools at Amazon's Coventry receive centre today (19 March) and tomorrow in the first of a fresh wave of strike dates at the warehouse.
GMB union members will also walk out at the company’s new fulfilment centre in Sutton Coldfield on Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 March.
The strike dates come just days after the union submitted an application for mandatory recognition at Amazon to the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC).
Over 1000 workers have already taken over 30 days of industrial action in their fight for £15 and union rights.
GMB Organiser, Rachel Fagan, said: "Amazon bosses wanted nothing more than a quiet year, but 2024 has already seen an explosive escalation of the strike wave hitting the company. When workers down tools tomorrow, they’ll be starting a fresh wave of industrial action and sending a clear message that this only ends when their demands are met.
"Our members are on the brink of forcing one of the world’s wealthiest corporations to formally recognise their union. This would be history and the first time anywhere in Europe that Amazon has been forced to accept union recognition. Strike action has been forced on these workers by low pay; now they’re determined to win."
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."