The opposition being mounted against Amazon, the online retail giant, has taken the name of the ancient Greek goddess Athena (wisdom & warfare). Comprising a very active and engaged coalition of about fifty local movements Athena is fighting against monopoly markets and for both the survival of small businesses and the rights of Amazon’s warehouse staff. The group stays abreast of and communicates any minor protest within the group and call sfor strike action, such as that held on 22 April demanding safer working conditions within the warehouses*. During the coronavirus pandemic Amazon has taken a principal role in delivering basic necessities.
Even more than ever, Amazon is establishing itself as the American family’s supermarket. Half of American consumers are now Amazon Prime (premium) members and are well used to quickly receiving their orders at home. For these members Amazon has deployed an impressive plan of action with 100,000 people hired in its warehouses in March, and more recently the announcement of 75,000 additional jobs.
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