A leading trade unionist has said that Amazon workers are ‘taking things into their own hands’ after protests begin.

Demonstrations have taken place at the Amazon warehouse at Longtown this morning as voting begins in an 'historic' workers’ rights ballot.

Amazon workers from across the country are rallying as their colleagues at the online retail giant's Coventry warehouse cast the first votes in their bid to force Amazon to recognise a union for the first time in the UK.

A separate rally outside Amazon’s London HQ saw TUC assistant general secretary Kate Bell joined by Amazon workers and supporters.

More than 3,000 workers will take part in the ballot – if a majority of them vote yes, Amazon will be forced to negotiate pay, terms and conditions with GMB Union.

Andy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said: “Workers have come together because of the poverty pay and unsafe conditions Amazon has thrust upon them.

“They want the same fair pay and safe conditions any of us would demand.

“GMB members face shocking levels of intimidation, fear and abuse at the hands of bosses for daring to fight.

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

Amazon has been criticised by trade unions for poor pay and working conditions in their warehouses across the country.

In 2022 a team of Amazon workers forced the company to recognise a trade union in the US for the first time.

The Amazon warehouse at Longtown is a major employer in the area as the trend of people buying online continues. 

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An Amazon spokesperson said: “Our employees have the choice of whether or not to join a union. They always have.

“We regularly review our pay to ensure we offer competitive wages and benefits. Our minimum starting pay has increased to £12.30 and £13 per hour depending on location, that’s a 20 per cent increase over two years and 50 per cent since 2018.

“We also work hard to provide great benefits, a positive work environment and excellent career opportunities.

“These are just some of the reasons people want to come and work at Amazon, whether it’s their first job, a seasonal role or an opportunity for them to advance their career.”