Amazon Raises Wages and Offers Free Prime to Workers
Seattle, Washington – Amazon has announced significant changes to its benefits package for US warehouse and transportation workers. In addition to increasing wages by at least $1.50 per hour, the company will now offer employees a free Amazon Prime membership.
The decision comes amid a tight labour market for logistics workers and increased online shopping. Amazon’s average starting wage will now exceed $22 per hour, making it a more competitive employer in the industry.
The company has faced intense scrutiny over safety and working conditions at its warehouses. An investigation by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee found that Amazon’s warehouses can be particularly dangerous for workers during peak periods like Prime Day and the holiday season.
Amazon has claimed that it has made progress in improving worker safety, with a significant reduction in work-related injuries. However, concerns about the “gruelling” experience of working in Amazon warehouses persist.
The wage hike and free Prime membership are expected to attract and retain workers, especially during the upcoming holiday season, which is predicted to see a surge in online sales.
