Amazon delivery drivers in four US states have gone on strike, citing long hours, little help, and poor working conditions. The Teamsters union claims to represent less than 1% of Amazon’s US workforce, but the company disputes this, saying they do not consider many drivers employees.
The drivers say they are underpaid and overworked, with workdays often taking 12 hours to deliver hundreds of packages. They also claim that Amazon’s routing technology results in “wear and tear” on their bodies due to long hours and excessive deliveries.
Amazon says its independent contractors, who have the delivery contracts, are responsible for the working conditions of the drivers. The company claims it prioritizes driver safety but does not expect drivers to make a delivery if they feel unsafe or unwell.
The Teamsters union argues that Amazon has more than enough resources to support its workers, citing the company’s $2 trillion market value and net income of $39.2 billion in the first nine months of this year. The union says the strike will continue until Amazon recognizes the drivers as employees and provides better wages and benefits.
The drivers’ demands include recognition as Amazon employees, improved working conditions, and better pay and health insurance. They hope that Amazon’s executive chairman, Jeff Bezos, will listen to their concerns and make changes to support its workers.
The strike has been supported by Teamsters employed by other companies, who have set up picket lines at 199 Amazon distribution centers nationwide. Despite the lack of work stoppage by the striking drivers, the protests aim to raise awareness about the issues facing Amazon’s workforce.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/20/business/why-amazon-drivers-are-on-strike/index.html