Amazon (AMZN.O) is currently facing its second workers’ union vote in just two months, as employees at a warehouse in Garner, North Carolina, decide whether to join the newly-formed Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment (CAUSE). The vote, taking place through this week, will determine if workers wish to collectively bargain with the retail giant for better wages, improved breaks, and more scheduling flexibility, among other demands. A simple majority is required for the union to be recognized.
This vote follows the successful unionization effort in January at a Whole Foods store in Philadelphia, marking the first victory for workers at the national grocery chain since its acquisition by Amazon in 2017.
Should the vote succeed, it could lead to further unionization efforts across Amazon’s U.S. warehouse network, which could increase the company’s labor and logistics costs. However, if the vote fails, it could dampen the momentum for unionization at Amazon.
Italo Medelius-Marsano, the secretary for CAUSE, emphasized the group’s push for better compensation and work conditions. The group is advocating for wages as high as $30 per hour, longer breaks, and job protections. Medelius-Marsano, who works at the shipping dock of the Garner facility, argued that Amazon could afford to pay its workers more, given its financial standing.
Amazon has strongly opposed unionization in the past, preferring to address workers’ concerns through direct communication with the company. Despite a union victory in 2022 at a Staten Island warehouse, Amazon has not yet recognized the union or entered into negotiations with workers. The company is also facing legal challenges following allegations of misconduct during union votes at its Alabama facilities.
Earlier in the month, Whole Foods sought to have the results of its recent election dismissed after the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) had been reduced to just two members following the firing of board officials during the Trump administration. Whole Foods alleged worker intimidation during the vote.
Amazon has been accused of retaliating against union activists at the Garner facility, including claims of firing workers and withholding benefits. The company, however, denies these allegations and maintains it is acting within its rights. An Amazon spokesperson pointed to the starting pay of $18.50 per hour at the Garner warehouse, which is significantly above the state’s minimum wage, and reiterated that employees should have the opportunity to voice their concerns directly with the company.