Amazon Raises Wages –
A New Competitive Advantage?

Are better wages the new competitive advantage? Today, Amazon, a pioneer and innovator in commerce, media and technology, is unleashing their latest innovation: an industry leading minimum wage for all full-time, part-time and seasonal workers in the United States. Effective November 1st, the company will offer its 350,000 employees a minimum of $15 an hour. Although the pay increase is still a dollar short from federal livable wage, currently $16.07 per hour, Amazon is taking their criticism and transforming it into a competitive advantage. As Amazon raises wages, they are also pushing for federal law to follow their lead. If successful, Amazon will once again be ahead of the curve, as this cost will already be incorporated into their operations while other companies struggle to balance their finances. Also, as more companies seek to position themselves around social issues, Amazon has taken the lead on a topic that meaningfully and powerfully engages both their workers and consumers.

Want to learn more?

• Read the original Amazon announcement here.
• See the Fast Company piece profiling our supply chain audits for a fashion brand that improved supply chain transparency while achieving livable wage for employees.
• Sign up for our “North Star” newsletter to get the most important news, insights and profiles on supply chain transformation.