GMB targets Amazon Rugeley warehouse over workers’ rights

The GMB union is set to demonstrate outside Amazon’s Rugeley warehouse today, following a Sunday Mirror expose claiming that the e-tailer’s drivers are being forced to deliver 200 parcels a day with no time for toilet breaks while earning less than minimum wage.

Rebecca Mitchell, GMB Organiser, says:  "It’s scarcely believable in 21st century Britain that employers can treat their workforce as slaves. But those are the horror stories we are hearing from our members working at Amazon Rugeley. GMB is holding a demonstration at the gates of the warehouse to show Amazon we will fight for our members’ rights.”

An Amazon spokesman told the Sunday Mirror: “Over 100 businesses across the UK are providing work opportunities to thousands of people delivering parcels to customers. We are committed to ensuring that the people contracted by our independent delivery providers are fairly compensated, treated with respect, follow all applicable laws and driving regulations and drive safely. Our delivery providers are expected to ensure drivers receive a minimum £12 per hour before deductions and excluding bonuses, incentives and fuel reimbursements.”