Campaigners unfurled a giant banner at Amazon's warehouse in Aylesford in protest against the company.

Trade union Unite put the banner up this morning to highlight what they describe as the organisation's "anti-union tactics globally", to coincide with the Amazon shareholders' meeting which took place earlier this week.

Around six people from Unite attended the warehouse in New Hythe Lane, where the banner was placed.

In the UK, Unite is calling on the company to make a clear commitment and sign up to a declaration of, which, Unite says, would guarantee Amazon workers the freedom to talk with and form a union without fear.

Unite, together with Global union Uni, is also calling on Amazon to respect labour rights around the world.

Unite executive officer Sharon Graham said: “ Whether it’s the UK, Cambodia, Bangladesh or the USA, Amazon is associated with anti-union tactics and poor treatment. It's time for Amazon’s shareholders to demand action to deliver better rights for Amazon workers.

“Workers and campaigners for social justice are in a battle with Amazon on a global scale to protect workers’ rights. It’s a battle that we are determined to win, the alternative is the continued global race to the bottom.”

"Unite has recently written to Jeff Bezos in response to claims from the company about respecting UK workers’ rights to join and form a union. Our union is calling on the company to make a clear commitment and sign up to a declaration of neutrality.

"The declaration would guarantee workers the freedom to talk with and form a union without fear. If the company is genuine then it should be more than happy to sign the declaration."

Amazon said in a statement: “We respect our employees’ right to join, form or not to join a labour union or other lawful organisation of their own selection. Across Amazon, including in our fulfilment centres, we place enormous value on having daily conversations with each associate and work to make sure direct engagement with our employees is a strong part of our work culture."

The firm added: "Since the beginning of the pandemic, Amazon has honoured all orders for both our US and EU private-label apparel businesses, and we are committed to continuously supporting our suppliers, their workers, and their communities.

"In 2020, we created a $1.3 million fund to invest in organisations providing critical frontline support to workers impacted by the pandemic.”

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