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Thousands of Amazon employees across more than 20 countries are preparing to strike and protest on Black Friday, targeting the e-commerce giant on one of its busiest shopping days.
Coordinated by the Make Amazon Pay coalition, the demonstrations will demand better working conditions, higher wages, and stronger commitments to environmental sustainability.
The movement includes warehouse workers, delivery drivers, and activists, with industrial action confirmed in Germany and public protests planned for cities worldwide. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Make Amazon Pay, backed by Swiss-based UNI Global Union and Progressive International, has staged Black Friday protests.
"Amazon's relentless pursuit of profit comes at a high cost to workers, the environment, and democracy," said Christy Hoffman, general secretary of UNI Global Union. "While Amazon spends millions to block unionization, these strikes and protests underscore the unwavering desire for justice. Workers are united in calling for fair treatment and respect for fundamental rights."
Key demands from the coalition include an end to alleged union-busting tactics, improved worker protections, and steps to reduce the company's environmental footprint. Protests in past years have included walkouts in the US, marches by garment workers in Bangladesh, and demonstrations outside Amazon's corporate headquarters.
Amazon 'proud' of record on pay, benefits, and work safety
In response, Amazon has defended its practices, citing competitive pay, benefits, and sustainability initiatives. "These groups represent various interests," an Amazon spokesperson said. "While we're always listening and looking at ways to improve, we remain proud of the pay, benefits, and safe work environment we provide." The company also highlighted its status as the largest corporate purchaser of renewable energy globally.
Despite these claims, criticism of Amazon's labor practices continues to mount. Workers and activists allege that the company prioritizes profits over employee welfare, with complaints ranging from excessive workloads to insufficient job security. Labor groups argue that Amazon's global influence necessitates a stronger commitment to equity and accountability.
David Steer, an organizer with Progressive International, emphasized the movement's global reach. "Black Friday is a symbol of Amazon's exploitation of workers and the planet," he said. "This year, we are amplifying our voices worldwide to demand real change."
With holiday shopping ramping up, the protests aim to disrupt operations and draw attention to the workers’ grievances. Whether these efforts will lead to tangible changes remains uncertain, but the growing momentum behind the Amazon Black Friday strike underscores the challenges the retail giant faces as it navigates scrutiny from both employees and the public.
The strikes come as part of a broader reckoning for global corporations, with increasing calls for ethical business practices to match their economic influence. The pressure on Amazon to respond effectively grows and the tussle between leadership and employees continues to the detriment of reputation, morale and customers.
