Amazon Eyes Robots to Replace 600,000 Future U.S. Workers

UPDATE: Amazon’s automation strategy could drastically change the job landscape, with plans to replace over 600,000 future hires with robots, according to a recent report from The New York Times. The e-commerce giant’s internal documents reveal that by 2027, Amazon expects to avoid hiring more than 160,000 workers in the U.S. alone, leveraging automation to streamline operations.

The implications of this strategy are staggering. As Amazon anticipates doubling its sales by 2033, the company believes automation could eliminate the need for more than 600,000 additional workers. This shift is projected to save Amazon approximately 30 cents on every item it processes—an urgent move in a highly competitive market.

Reports indicate that Amazon’s robotics team aims to automate a remarkable 75% of its operations. The company has already deployed over 1 million robots across its facilities, marking a significant milestone in its automation journey. In light of these developments, Amazon is reportedly preparing public relations strategies to mitigate potential backlash, including rebranding efforts to enhance its image as a “good corporate citizen.”

Internal documents suggest that Amazon plans to avoid terms like “automation” and “AI,” opting instead for softer language such as “advanced technology.” This strategy aims to quell concerns over job losses that automation may bring.

Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel responded to the report, asserting that the leaked documents offer an “incomplete” view of the company’s hiring strategy. “These materials reflect the perspective of just one team and don’t represent our overall hiring strategy,” Nantel stated. She emphasized Amazon’s commitment to job creation, noting that the company has added more jobs in America in the last decade than any other firm and recently announced plans to fill 250,000 positions for the upcoming holiday season.

The potential job loss has drawn criticism from political leaders. Senator Bernie Sanders reacted strongly to the report, warning that “Big Tech oligarchs are coming for your job.” Earlier this month, he released a report estimating that AI and automation could lead to the loss of nearly 100 million jobs in the U.S. over the next decade.

However, not all experts agree on the immediate impact of AI and automation. Research from the Yale University Budget Lab and the Brookings Institution indicates that generative AI has not significantly altered employment patterns since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022.

As Amazon continues to push the boundaries of automation, the conversation around its impact on the workforce remains urgent and critical. What happens next will be pivotal—not just for Amazon, but for millions of workers across the nation. The ongoing developments warrant close attention as the landscape of employment is poised for dramatic changes.