1,300 jobs to be created at major new Amazon site in Swindon
The announcement follows protests about alleged 'poor working conditions' for staff
Last updated 14th May 2021
It's been confirmed that a major new Amazon warehouse is going to be built in Swindon.
The online retailer is using the enormous plant being constructed at Symmetry Park, located just off the A420 on the eastern edge of the town.
Amazon has described the site as a "fulfilment centre", saying it will create 1,300 permanent jobs later this year.
In total, 10,000 new UK positions will be opened by the Internet commerce giant over the course of 2021.
As well as Swindon, new "fulfilment centres" are going to be launched in the East Midlands, Dartford and Gateshead. It's also expected that a parcel-receive centre will be built in Doncaster.
The move will take Amazon's total UK workforce to more than 55,000 people.
In addition, £10 million is being spent by the tech firm over a three-year period, to train 5,000 employees in new skills.
'A huge vote of confidence in the British economy'
The government's Business Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, has called the announcement "fantastic news", saying it's "a huge vote of confidence in the British economy".
"As we build back better from the pandemic, this is a prime investment in our retail sector.
"(Amazon's) latest investment will open up a wide range of opportunities for even more workers, helping to develop the skills needed to power tomorrow’s economy," he added.
'Poor working conditions'
The announcement of Amazon providing more jobs in our region comes hot on the heels of criticism about alleged "poor working conditions" for staff.
Unite the Union has been condemning Amazon, also accusing the multinational corporation of "anti-union tactics".
On Thursday 13 May, Unite unfurled a giant banner outside Amazon's existing depot in Swindon, on Woodside Road.
Campaigners from Unite were urging the online retailer to sign a declaration, that would guarantee employees the freedom to form a union.
'Workers have serious concerns about bullying'
Unite executive officer, Sharon Graham said: “Amazon’s profits have tripled off the backs of workers who have been essential during the pandemic. But the company continues to be plagued by reports of poor working conditions and anti-union tactics.
"Amazon workers are not currently free to join a union without fear, and without obstruction and propaganda being deployed against them.
"Workers have serious concerns about issues such as bullying, mandatory overtime, intense surveillance, break-neck production targets and much more besides".
'We respect our employees’ right to join, or not to join a labour union'
In response, Amazon has denied the claims made by Unite, telling Greatest Hits Radio that staff are indeed allowed to join a trade union.
A spokesperson for the company added: “We respect our employees’ right to join, form, or not to join a labour union or other lawful organisation of their own selection, without fear of reprisal, intimidation, or harassment.
"Across Amazon ... we place enormous value on having daily conversations with each associate and work to make sure direct engagement with our employees is a strong part of our work culture.
"The fact is, we already offer excellent pay, excellent benefits and excellent opportunities for career growth".