Amazon plans to boost wages for contracted drivers as part of a $440 million investment in its third-party delivery program, but has not disclosed the exact amount.
Amazon plans to hire 250,000 U.S. workers for the holiday shopping season, a significant increase compared to previous years, as it focuses on expanding next-day delivery for shoppers, contrasting with other retailers who are expecting reduced consumer spending and will hire fewer workers.
Amazon has agreed to invest up to $4 billion in AI startup Anthropic, aiming to enhance its rivalry with Microsoft, Meta, Google, and Nvidia in the rapidly growing AI sector.
UPS plans to hire over 100,000 seasonal workers with higher starting pay, ranging from $21 to $23 per hour, as a result of a contract agreement with the Teamsters union.
Amazon is increasing pay for its operations workers in the UK and hiring an additional 15,000 staff ahead of the holidays, in response to rising demand and worker protests over pay and working conditions.
### Summary
Amazon's worker safety concerns are being scrutinized by regulators and the Department of Justice, as data from the Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration shows high injury rates among Amazon laborers, leading to citations for failing to keep workers safe; meanwhile, California is set to increase its minimum wage to $18 per hour next year, making it one of the highest in the country.
Amazon is working to regain sustained growth and profitability after a period of decline, but it is also facing a major legal battle with the U.S. government and potential antitrust scrutiny overseas. Additionally, the company is focusing on generative artificial intelligence and preparing for a busy holiday shopping season.
