Amazon has come under criticism in the past for the way it treats its employees and now the company has announced that it is raising its minimum wage in the US to $15.
The new minimum wage will apply to all of Amazon’s staff, whether they are full time, part time, temporary and seasonal.
Amazon today announced it is increasing its minimum wage to $15 for all full-time, part-time, temporary (including those hired by agencies), and seasonal employees across the U.S.—effective November 1. The new Amazon $15 minimum wage will benefit more than 250,000 Amazon employees, as well as over 100,000 seasonal employees who will be hired at Amazon sites across the country this holiday.
“We listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead,” said Jeff Bezos, Amazon Founder and CEO. “We’re excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us.”
Impact on Employees
This wage increase is a significant move for Amazon, which has faced ongoing scrutiny over its labor practices. The decision to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of its employees. For many workers, this increase will mean a substantial boost in their take-home pay, which can help alleviate financial stress and improve their overall quality of life.
For example, a full-time Amazon employee working 40 hours a week will see their annual income rise from $23,920 (at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour) to $31,200. This increase can make a significant difference in covering essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, and education.
Broader Implications for the Industry
Amazon’s decision to raise its minimum wage could also have broader implications for the retail and logistics industries. As one of the largest employers in the United States, Amazon’s move sets a precedent that other companies may feel pressured to follow. This could lead to a ripple effect, encouraging other large employers to raise their wages as well, thereby improving the standard of living for a broader segment of the workforce.
Moreover, this wage increase comes at a time when the debate over the federal minimum wage is intensifying. Advocates for a higher minimum wage argue that the current federal rate of $7.25 per hour is insufficient for workers to meet their basic needs. Amazon’s decision to set a $15 minimum wage aligns with the goals of these advocates and adds momentum to the push for higher wages nationwide.
You can find out more details about Amazon’s plans to change their minimum wage to $15 at the link below.
Source Amazon
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