Amazon UK could be forced to recognise a trade union for the first time as its warehouse workers are set to begin voting next month.
Union GMB have arrived at the retailer’s Coventry depot to kick off a month-long ballot process that will see more than 3,000 staff invited to a series of 45-minute meetings with union representatives and separate gatherings with the e-commerce giant, at which the two sides will make their case.
Voting will then take place in the workplace from 8 July, with the result announced after 15 July.
If staff vote to support recognition, the GMB would be given the right to represent them in negotiations over pay, hours and holidays with the online giant.
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It comes as the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC), the independent statutory body that adjudicates on collective bargaining rights, ruled in April that a ballot should be held at the distribution centre to test support for union recognition.
GMB senior organiser Amanda Gearing said: “This is an historic moment. Amazon is one of the world’s most hostile and anti-union employers. They’re a multi-billion-pound global company investing huge energy to resist efforts by working class people in Coventry to fight for a better life.
“But right here Coventry Amazon workers have rejected Amazon’s attempts to smash their union. Instead, they’ve stood up to be counted and demanded the chance to vote on union recognition. Now Amazon workers, not the bosses, will decide”.
An Amazon spokesperson said: “Our employees have the choice of whether or not to join a union. They always have. Across Amazon, we place enormous value on having daily conversations and engagement with our employees. It’s a strong part of our work culture. We value that direct relationship and so do our employees.
“We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits. Our minimum starting pay has increased to £12.30 and £13 per hour depending on location – that’s a 20% increase over two years and 50% since 2018.
“We also work hard to provide great benefits, a positive work environment and excellent career opportunities. These are just some of the reasons people want to come and work at Amazon, whether it’s their first job, a seasonal role or an opportunity for them to advance their career.”
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