Amazon Prime Day Increases Amount of Worker Injuries

Amazon’s Prime Day, now in its 10th year, is expected to set a record with $14 billion in spending over the two days, representing a 10.5% increase from 2023. On July 16, the first day, spending is projected to reach $7.1 billion, making it the biggest mobile shopping day of the year, with $3.4 billion in mobile sales. The second day is forecasted to generate $6.9 billion, up 9.2% year-over-year.

Steeper discounts are driving this spending, particularly in electronics (22% off), apparel (20%), and home goods (17%). Adobe’s analyst noted that back-to-school shopping trends are boosting consumer interest in the event. Prime Day typically accounts for 1%-2% of Amazon’s annual global sales, with last year’s event seeing a 6.1% increase over 2022.

But all the hard work for this eventful sale comes with an unfortunate cost.

A Senate probe found that Amazon’s Prime Day significantly contributed to worker injuries, according to CBS News. The investigation highlighted understaffing in warehouses during busy periods, increasing risks for employees. Senator Bernie Sanders released findings that claimed that “Amazon warehouse workers are more than twice as likely to be injured during the Prime Day event than their industry peers, with its reportable injuries surpassing 10 per 100 workers during Prime Day 2019.”

Amazon defended itself, stating it has made progress in reducing injury rates and is investing $750 million in safety initiatives this year. The company faces ongoing scrutiny from regulators and is under investigation for potentially underreporting injuries.

Moreover, competition for sales events has intensified this year.

Best Buy is hosting its Black Friday sale in July to coincide with Amazon Prime Day, offering significant discounts on tech and gifts through July 17. Shoppers can find deals on smartwatches, gaming, and entertainment from brands like Apple and Samsung, with My Best Buy members receiving a $50 bonus for spending $500 or more. Unlike Amazon, Best Buy doesn’t require membership to access these deals.

While Amazon may have a broader range of discounts, Best Buy is known for offering better deals in key tech categories. Additional promotions include free software and gift cards with certain purchases. Best Buy generally provides more discounts to all shoppers, with deeper cuts for My Best Buy members, while Amazon Prime members may access exclusive deals. Best Buy also features “Best Buy Drops” for app users to take advantage of limited-time offers.