Amazon is grappling with the largest strike in its history as thousands of workers across the United States and Germany walk off the job just days before the holiday season, demanding better wages, safer conditions, and respect for union representation.
In the U.S., employees from eight facilities in cities including New York City, Atlanta, San Francisco, and Skokie, Illinois, began striking at 6 a.m. ET on Thursday.
The action follows Amazon’s refusal to engage in negotiations with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters union, which had warned of potential walkouts unless bargaining dates were agreed upon by Sunday.
The Teamsters confirmed that picket lines have been established at seven facilities, with plans to expand to hundreds of Amazon Fulfilment Centres nationwide.
According to union leaders, nearly 10,000 Amazon workers have joined the Teamsters in their fight for better pay and improved working conditions.
“What we’re doing is historic,” said Leah Pensler, a warehouse worker in San Francisco. “We are fighting against a vicious union-busting campaign, and we are going to win.”
In Staten Island, Amazon’s JFK8 warehouse, which became the first Amazon facility to unionise in March 2022, continues to serve as a central hub for the labour movement.
Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien condemned Amazon for its handling of labour relations, stating, “If your package is delayed during the holidays, you can blame Amazon’s insatiable greed.”
Amazon has dismissed the strikes as ineffective and claimed the union’s actions are part of a misleading campaign. “The Teamsters have actively threatened, intimidated, and coerced employees, which is illegal,” said Amazon spokesperson Kely Nantel.
The company highlighted its record of wage increases and investments in workplace safety but faces criticism following a report by Sen. Bernie Sanders, which accused Amazon of downplaying workplace injuries and prioritising productivity over worker safety.
The strike has extended beyond the U.S., with workers in Germany, represented by the United Services Union, launching a nationwide strike to parallel the U.S. efforts. The German strikes are designed to target Amazon’s “sensitive points” and continue through the holidays.
“Solidarity knows no national borders,” said ver.di board member Silke Zimmer. “We will continue to fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and recognition of collective agreements.”
As the strikes grow, Amazon faces mounting pressure to address its labour practices while navigating one of its busiest seasons of the year.
