Amazon Workers Urge Strike, Led by Verdi Union
In the midst of Amazon's Prime Week, logistics workers represented by the union Verdi in Germany are staging a strike, demanding better working conditions and fair treatment. The strike, which involves approximately 9,000 employees, is taking place in several logistics centres across the country, including Bad Hersfeld, Dortmund, Werne, Koblenz, Rheinberg, and Leipzig.
Despite the disruption, Amazon maintains that its logistics operations are resilient enough to handle strikes and that customers can rely on reliable, timely delivery of their orders. The company's logistics teams are well-rehearsed and prepared to handle the strike, ensuring that orders are delivered as usual.
The union's key demands include reducing excessive work strain, addressing workplace safety and health, fair treatment and respect, and protection for vulnerable immigrant workers. Workers report feeling overworked, facing dangerous pacing and repetitive motions that lead to musculoskeletal injuries, and working under unsafe heat conditions. They also express constant stress from the need to work fast while staying safe, with surveillance and pressure for minimal breaks.
The strike and related protests during Prime Week are putting extra strain on Amazon's fulfillment centres and logistics hubs, increasing the risk of injuries and slowing productivity. Public rallies and union-organized protests are also raising awareness of working conditions, potentially damaging Amazon's reputation during a peak sales event when billions of dollars in revenue are expected.
Historical data shows that injuries spike 35% above usual levels during Prime Day, and the extended event duration to nearly a week in 2025 further intensifies operational challenges. While some reported strikes may be part of orchestrated union campaigns, the genuine grievances of workers underline ongoing labor tensions during these critical sales days.
Silke Zimmer of Verdi stated that Amazon employees receive no recognition for the extra effort during Prime Week. The strike is intended to demonstrate that employees are not willing to risk their health for Amazon's discount battles.
Amazon, however, states that it offers its employees fair wages and good benefits, with a starting wage of 15 euros gross per hour and above. Half of Amazon's colleagues in Germany have been with the company for over five years, indicating a level of job satisfaction and stability.
The union's demands for safer, fairer working conditions and respect for workers during the gruelling Prime Week period highlight the ongoing labour tensions in the industry. The strike actions and protests add operational pressure on Amazon’s logistics and could disrupt the flow of packages and overall business during one of its most profitable events of the year.
- The Commission might consider incorporating a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from ionizing radiation risks in the workplace, given the ongoing debates about the safety and wellness of workers in high-stress industries like retail and logistics, which include science and finance sectors.
- Despite the benefits of a healthy and well-functioning workforce, such as improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs, workers in industries like retail and logistics often face excessive work strain, dangerous conditions, and poor treatment, potentially leading to long-term health issues and musculoskeletal injuries.
- As companies like Amazon evolve to encompass a broader range of operations, from e-commerce to renewable energy ventures, it is crucial to address the concerns of their workforce regarding workplace health, safety, and fair treatment. Addressing these issues will not only ensure the wellbeing of workers but also bolster the reputation of these companies in the eyes of the public and stakeholders.
