Amazon Coventry workers await landmark union vote result

More than 3,000 Amazon workers in Coventry are awaiting the results of a historic vote that could force the company to recognize a union for the first time in Britain.

The vote, which ended on Saturday after a month-long process, is expected to reveal its results today (Monday, July 14).

If successful, it could mark a significant shift in the relationship between the retail giant and its workforce, giving workers the right to negotiate directly with Amazon management over pay, hours and holidays.

A win for the GMB union would boost their ability to tackle health and safety issues at the Coventry depot.

Andy Prendergast, national secretary of the GMB, said: “Workers have come together over poverty pay and the unsafe conditions Amazon has imposed.”

“They want the same fair pay and safe conditions that any of us would. GMB members face shocking levels of intimidation, fear and abuse from bosses for daring to fight.

“Amazon had every chance to do the right thing; now workers are taking matters into their own hands to make the work better,” he added.

Workers at the site reported demanding physical conditions and close managerial supervision, with the threat of disciplinary action for minor infractions.

An Amazon spokesperson said: “Our employees have a choice whether or not to join a union. They always have. We regularly review our salaries to ensure we offer competitive salaries and benefits.

“We also place enormous value on interacting directly with our Amazon employees. It is an essential part of our work culture. We value this direct relationship and so do our employees.”

It comes as the newly elected Labor government has pledged to strengthen union powers, although this has been criticized by senior business bosses.