More strikes set for Amazon's Coventry warehouse

It takes the total number of strike days at the site to 16.

Author: Ben CartwrightPublished 23rd May 2023

Workers at the retail giant's Coventry fulfilment centre will down tools again tomorrow (24 May) and on Friday (26 May) in their ongoing dispute over pay.

This comes as Coventry Amazon workers await the outcome of their union recognition bid to the Government’s Central Arbitration Committee and Amazon workers in Rugeley and Mansfield vote on joining strike action.

Around 700 Coventry workers are expected to walk out on the two days of strike action.

Amanda Gearing, GMB Senior Organiser, said:

“Our members won’t accept a pay rise of pennies from one of the world wealthiest corporations.

“The mood amongst GMB members on the picket line is sky high.

“They’ve had huge support from local people here in Coventry and from fellow Amazon workers around the globe.

“Meanwhile Amazon top brass are reaching for desperate Jekyll and Hyde tactics towards its own workforce.

“One day they’re promising vouchers and competitions to win over staff, the next they’re setting up barriers around their fulfilment centres to keep staff union representatives away.

“Our members won’t be convinced by anything less that £15 and for Amazon to talk pay with their union”.

We reached out to Amazon for comment and a spokesperson for the retailer said:

“Amazon respects our employees’ rights to join, or not to join, a union. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, opportunities for career growth, all while working in a safe, modern, work environment. At Amazon, these benefits and opportunities come with the job, as does the ability to communicate directly with the leadership of the company.”

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