GMB eyes Milton Keynes for latest Amazon demonstration

The GMB union will this Friday hold a protest outside Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Milton Keynes, flagging up what they describe as “appalling working conditions in the online retailer’s warehouses”.

Its members will be brandishing banners and picket signs stating “we are not robots". They will be joined by six members of the CCOO Union from Spain who have been striking over working conditions there.

Also this week, demonstrations have been held outside Amazon fulfilment centres in Rugeley, Swansea, Peterborough, Warrington, Coventry and Doncaster. Steve Garelick, GMB Regional Organiser, comments: “We are keen to see a sea change from Amazon and that working with a union brings benefits. Until we see an improvement in workers’ situations we will continue to speak out. Until we see companies such as Amazon making a real substantial tax and green contribution to the UK and elsewhere we will remain resolute in voicing our concerns."

“I think it’s important to also make clear that these are not Amazon workers. Events like Prime Day have become an opportunity for our critics, including unions, to raise awareness for their cause, in this case, increased membership dues. These groups are conjuring misinformation to work in their favour, when in fact we already offer the things they purport to be their cause — industry-leading pay, benefits and a safe workplace for our employees,” an Amazon spokesperson told RTIH.

“We can only conclude that the people who attend the events are simply not informed. We encourage everyone to book a tour of one of our fulfilment centres and compare our overall pay, benefits, and workplace environment to other retailers and major employers across the country.”