Unions have reacted with anger to Amazon’s announcement it plans to close three fulfilment centres in the UK, which will affect 1,200 jobs.
The warehouses in Hemel Hempstead, Doncaster and Gourock, in the west of Scotland, have all been earmarked for closure, although the retail giant plans to open two new major fulfilment centres.
A spokesman for Amazon said workers would be offered roles at other existing locations but the promise has failed to appease unions.
Steve Garelick, GMB organiser, said: “This is a real kick in the teeth for Amazon staff who worked themselves into the ground during the festive rush.
“Hard-up Amazon workers can’t suddenly be expected to up sticks and move to a different fulfilment centre which may be many miles away.
“Amazon has failed to bring a stable employment model due to their long-standing health and safety issues and poor workplace practices.
“To move forward with stability, Amazon needs to engage with the workforce through their union GMB.”
Last week BusinessCloud reported how warehouse workers in Coventry will become the first UK Amazon workers to strike on January 25.
A ballot of around 300 staff late last year saw 98 per cent vote to walk out in the New Year following the company’s pay offer of 50p per hour – rising to £10.56, equivalent to 5 per cent and well below inflation.
Further strike dates are to be announced in the coming weeks.