Amazon might have everything from A to Z…but employees.
Tell me more.
The world's largest retailer (outside China) employs over 1 million people in the US. Its labor model prioritizes worker productivity above all else. It's also dealing with a high turnover rate (159% in 2020 compared to 59% in other warehouses that same year). But founder Jeff Bezos has welcomed Amazon’s revolving door saying, long-term employees lead to “mediocrity.” But it might lead to no employees at all. A leaked 2021 memo shows Amazon could run out of people to hire in its warehouses by 2024 if things don’t change.
Why the high turnover?
Because the company is running its employees to the ground. Employees have long complained about unsafe work conditions and feeling constantly watched. That’s because Amazon has a strict attendance policy and productivity quotas — apparently issuing write-ups if employees take too long to do a task. There’s also an overall lack of job security...which can go both ways. Beyoncé knows.
Release ya job, release the time.
Right. And some employees have tried to unionize — something Amazon has repeatedly pushed back on. Before leaving as CEO, Bezos changed his tune on NGAF about workers. Last year, he said Amazon has to do a “better job” and that the company should work to become “Earth’s best employer and Earth’s safest place to work.” Manifesting, amirite?
theSkimm
Amazon is the US’s second-largest private employer. But it doesn’t keep that title if it keeps shipping out workers as quickly as it does products.
And Also...This
Where there are updates…
Uvalde, TX. Yesterday, the city’s school district placed its chief of police on leave. For weeks, authorities have been investigating the police response to the shooting at Robb Elementary School, where a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers. Officials say Chief Pete Arredondo’s response as the on-scene commander during the massacre was delayed. And that his decision to have officers treat the situation in the classroom as a “barricaded subject” rather than an active shooter went against protocol. Arredondo maintains he did not believe he was the officer in charge at that time. Now, a lieutenant will replace him. The decision comes a day after the Texas Department of Public Safety called the police response an “abject failure.” And listed off a number of mistakes, including that the police never checked to see if the classroom door was unlocked.
What lawmakers may or may not pump the brakes on…
Gas prices. Yesterday, President Biden asked Congress to implement a three-month gas tax holiday. If lawmakers sign off, federal taxes on gasoline and diesel would be suspended to help ease prices. But it’s a big 'if,' considering there are few lawmakers on board. Many Republicans are concerned the tax holiday would mean less funding for the Highway Trust Fund. And say it's 'funny weird' that Biden pushed for this idea months before the midterms. Democrats doubt that oil companies will pass on the savings to Americans. On top of that, economists are also skeptical of putting more money in wallets right now since that encourages people to spend...and could make the inflation problem even worse. Biden’s response: “Do it now.”
PS: Gas prices can hurt your wallet. We've got tips to help.
Where people are mourning…
Afghanistan. Early yesterday, a nearly 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the southeastern part of the country. At least 1,000 people died, and hundreds are injured or trapped under rubble. Now, the Taliban is asking the world to do what they can to help the victims of the earthquake. The UN said it’s “assessing the needs” and is sending help soon.
Why people are checking their fridge…
Daily Harvest. The company has recalled its French Lentil + Leek Crumbles amid reports that it caused gastrointestinal issues.
You’ve heard of fast fashion. But what about fast furniture? It’s furniture that may cost less for consumers, but costs a whole lot more for the environment. Case in point: The EPA estimates that 12 million tons of furniture gets thrown out every year. Sofa, not so good.
One solution? Meet Outer. They’ve created sustainable outdoor furniture that stands the test of time. One of our fave pieces? The Wicker Sofa. It’s hand-woven and made with recycled, durable synthetic material. Plus the multilayer memory foam cushions are suuuuper comfy. And it comes with the OuterShell. Hint: A cover that’s built into the cushion and easily rolls over the furniture. Backyard = upgraded.
If you’re welcoming a new baby, you’ve probably gotten advice on everything from where to register to whether to sleep train. One thing you may not have heard about? Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a viral infection over half of adults have been infected with by age 40. For most people, CMV is NBD. But for some (think: newborns and people with weakened immune systems) it could have serious consequences.
CMV is the No. 1 infectious cause of birth defects in the US. And it can be passed from a pregnant person to their unborn baby. But only 9% of women know about it. The good news? There are ways to help prevent it. Talk to your doctor and learn more about CMV.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Award-winning makeup that’ll give your cheeks that perfect pop of pink. No pinching required. This viral, lightweight gel blush isn’t just a sunkissed look in a bottle. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and finally back in stock. Plus for the first time ever, Skimm’rs get 20% off.*
2. A waterproof vibrator that’s sucky in the best way. You know where this is going. Dame’s Aer vibrator uses unique, pressure-wave tech to create air (get it) pulses riiiight where you want it to. Plus Skimm’rs get 15% off. O-yeah.*
3.Something that can help you cover expected and less-than-expected expenses. With the Pay Over Time feature from American Express, you can carry a balance with interest on the Green, Gold, or Platinum Card up to your Pay Over Time Limit.† And still earn rewards.*
4. Bralettes so comfy, you’ll forget you’re wearing ‘em. This brand gives you alllll the support, sans pokey wires or straps that dig. Plus they have maternity bras and loungewear, too. And Skimm’rs can save up to 50% on select styles when they mix and match.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
†Terms apply.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Fostering Hope…Tristan G (PA). After a year of planning, her non-profit just secured a permanent space for families in foster care to grab any needs for free — giving the foster community in her area a place to “shop” with dignity.
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
theSkimm Loyalty Program
Design: theSkimm
Winner has a nice ring to it. Introducing: theSkimm Loyalty Program's first-ever Sweepstakes*. We’re giving away 10 swag bundles (think: a very cushy yoga mat, water bottle that’ll last, and extra-soft t–shirt). Log in and head to the rewards section of your member dashboard to enter to win. Not a member yet? Sign up for free and start reaping the rewards.
*Terms and Conditions apply for theSkimm Loyalty Program Summer Sweepstakes occurring between June 15, 2022 and June 30, 2022. By joining and/or entering, you affirm that you have read and agree to the T&Cs. Reach out to loyalty@theSkimm.com for questions.
Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj
