Amazon's Major Restructuring Sees 16,000 Global Roles Axed, Including Hundreds in UK
The GMB union has launched a fierce condemnation of Amazon following the retail giant's confirmation that it will eliminate 16,000 positions worldwide. This significant workforce reduction primarily targets corporate roles, with hundreds of UK-based employees in London and Manchester offices now facing uncertainty about their futures.
Union Slams "Eye-Watering Profits" at Workers' Expense
Representing over 620,000 workers across the United Kingdom, the GMB union has formally criticised Amazon's decision, questioning the company's genuine commitment to its workforce. Union organisers argue that this move prioritises what they describe as "eye-watering profits" over the livelihoods of hardworking local people and their families.
This latest announcement follows an earlier round of 14,000 job cuts, bringing the total workforce reductions to a staggering 30,000 positions within just four months. Amazon has officially confirmed these plans as part of what they describe as a necessary organisational restructuring to strengthen their business operations.
UK Impact and Corporate Restructuring Details
In the United Kingdom, the job losses are expected to impact hundreds of corporate employees based in major business hubs, particularly London and Manchester. As of late 2025, Amazon employed approximately 75,000 people across its various British sites, distribution centres, and corporate offices.
Senior management at Amazon have stated that these layoffs are essential to "strengthen the organisation" by reducing management layers and removing what they perceive as unnecessary bureaucracy. Company representatives have attempted to reassure remaining staff members that this does not represent the beginning of a regular cycle of workforce reductions.
Support for Impacted Employees and Union Concerns
Employees affected by these corporate role eliminations will be offered various forms of support, including:
- Internal job search opportunities within Amazon
- Transition services and career support
- Severance pay packages
Despite these measures, the GMB union maintains that the technology giant cannot be fully trusted to do the right thing by its workforce. Union representatives continue to express concerns about the broader implications of these decisions on local communities and economic stability.
Broader Context and Future Implications
This substantial restructuring comes as Amazon CEO Andy Jassy continues to push for greater operational efficiency through increased automation and the integration of artificial intelligence technologies. Critics of these workforce reductions warn that such decisions could cause significant damage to the economic stability of towns and cities across the country that have come to rely on Amazon's employment opportunities.
The union's strong response highlights growing tensions between corporate efficiency drives and workforce protection, particularly in the technology sector where rapid changes and restructuring have become increasingly common.
