Amazon’s ‘return-to-hub’ policy sparks employee backlash
Amazon, the e-commerce giant that has thrived during the pandemic, is now facing a new challenge: how to bring its employees back to the office.
The company has recently implemented a controversial “return-to-hub” policy, which requires employees to relocate near their teams’ designated “hub” offices in cities such as Seattle, New York, Houston, and Austin. Those who refuse to comply will have two options: find a new job internally or leave the company through a “voluntary resignation”.
The policy is part of Amazon’s effort to encourage more in-person work and collaboration, as Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said that “collaborating and inventing is easier and more effective when we’re in person.” Amazon’s spokesperson, Brad Glasser, stated that the company had observed increased energy, collaboration, and connections among employees since the return to in-person work.
However, the policy has also sparked internal resistance and petitions for its reversal. Some employees argue that the policy lacks a human-centric approach and undermines the…
