Amazon set for ‘summer of chaos’ as GMB ballots East Midlands workers over pay

Amazon workers in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire could be set to follow in the footsteps of their history-making counterparts in Coventry by launching strike action over pay, the GMB Union has said.

Hundreds of staff at Amazon’s Coventry warehouse have been engaged in industrial action since the beginning of March – and are now expected to down tools for a further six days in April.

It is understood the action in the West Midlands could cost the global giant more than £2m.

Those costs will likely increase if GMB Members at Amazon’s fulfilment centres in Mansfield, Coalville, Kegworth, Rugeley and Rugby follow suit.

In a statement, GMB said ballots had been launched at the fives sites to determine whether members are willing to strike over a 50p pay rise enforced by Amazon management.

Amanda Gearing, GMB senior organiser, said: “Industrial action is growing and this could fast become a summer of strike chaos [at] Amazon.

“Three months ago Amazon told our members there was no money left for pay rises, yet through pressure, campaigning and strike action we’ve forced Amazon to sit up and take notice.

“Six further days of strike action in Coventry is a clear statement from our members they are worth more; they will not accept a pay rise of pennies from one of the world’s wealthiest corporations.

“With workers at five further sites starting ballots for industrial action this month, it’s clear Amazon need to urgently get serious and talk pay with GMB now.”