Delivery drivers share mixed feelings about holiday bonuses and working conditions at Amazon.
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As the festive season unfolds, Amazon drivers in the north-east are busy delivering hundreds of packages daily. However, one Aberdeenshire driver recently experienced a shocking twist when he discovered a ‘golden ticket’ in his delivery bag, which he believed was part of a festive bonus initiative.
This discovery, however, led to disappointment rather than celebration.
Unexpected gift raises eyebrows
The driver, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared his disbelief with The Press and Journal after opening a box labeled ‘golden ticket winner’ only to find a first aid kit inside.
“I thought it was a joke,” he remarked, expressing his frustration over the lack of thoughtfulness in the gift. His experience has sparked conversations among fellow drivers, many of whom echoed his sentiments regarding the quality of the rewards they receive for their hard work during the busy holiday season.
Increasing pressures on delivery staff
This driver, who has been delivering for Amazon for two years, noted a significant increase in his workload, with daily deliveries rising from 150 to 300 packages. He criticized the company’s bonus system, describing it as unachievable and detrimental to workers’ mental health. “Delivering for Amazon is stressful and physically taxing,” he stated, revealing that he has had to take time off work due to mental health issues. “As a self-employed driver, there’s no pay when you take time off,” he added, highlighting the precarious nature of their employment.
Concerns about working conditions
Another driver from the same depot corroborated these claims, stating that drivers often work beyond their nine-hour shifts. He expressed frustration over the increasing size of their delivery routes, which are designed to maximize parcel deliveries at the expense of safety and working conditions. “Amazon doesn’t distinguish between good weather or bad, road closures or events planned. It is not their problem,” he lamented, emphasizing the lack of breaks during long shifts. “After nine hours of driving and running up stairs, this is not something I’d say is safe,” he concluded.
Amazon’s response to driver concerns
In response to the growing concerns among drivers, an Amazon spokesperson stated that the company is committed to ensuring fair treatment and compensation for all drivers contracted through independent delivery providers. They emphasized their efforts to improve the experiences of drivers, noting that they receive positive feedback regularly. However, the sentiments expressed by drivers suggest a disconnect between corporate assurances and the realities faced on the ground.
As the holiday season continues, the experiences of Amazon delivery drivers highlight the challenges and pressures inherent in their roles, raising important questions about worker treatment and corporate responsibility in the gig economy.
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