• Amazon employees in several locations across Europe walked out on strike on Black Friday to protest the company's working practices.
• The strikes were coordinated by the UNI Global Union and took place in over 30 countries.
• Workers are demanding higher wages and better working conditions.

Amazon Faces Global Workforce Protests on Black Friday

On one of the busiest shopping days globally, Amazon grapples with widespread protests staged by employees across Europe, condemning the company's labor practices. Coordinated by UNI Global Union under the 'Make Amazon Pay' campaign, the demonstrations spanned over 30 countries from Black Friday to Monday, challenging the e-commerce giant's policies. Black Friday, renowned for lucrative discounts, has evolved into a global phenomenon, aided by Amazon, with this year's holiday sales advertised from November 17 to 27, 2023.

Germany: Strikes Hit Fulfillment Centers

In Germany, the Verdi union reported approximately 2,000 workers striking across six Amazon fulfillment centers. Notably, 500 workers protested in Rheinberg, constituting 40% of the workforce, and Leipzig saw nearly 250 workers striking, representing almost 20% of the overall workforce.

UK Workers Demand Higher Wages

Over 200 workers at Amazon's Coventry warehouse in the UK initiated a strike over prolonged pay disputes. Workers, including Nick Henderson, demanded increased wages and better working conditions, advocating for a pay raise to £15 or $18.69 per hour.

Italy, Spain, and France Witness Protests

In Italy, the CGIL union reported over 60% of workers at the Castel San Giovanni warehouse going on strike, while Amazon contested, stating 86% of workers attended, with no operational impact. Spanish union CCOO called for a one-hour strike on each shift during 'Cyber Monday.' In France, anti-globalization organization Attac protested at Amazon's parcel lockers, labeling Black Friday a 'celebration of overproduction and overconsumption.'

Amidst the global unrest, Amazon reassured timely Black Friday deliveries and asserted minimal disruption, emphasizing fair wages and starting salaries exceeding €14 ($15.27) an hour. The protests underscore escalating tensions between the tech giant and its workforce, prompting a renewed focus on labor practices and worker rights.