Amazon closes print-on-demand in Leipzig: 40 jobs at risk!

Amazon closes print-on-demand in Leipzig: 40 jobs at risk!

A new wind is blowing over Leipzig, and it brings worrying news for Amazon employees. At the end of September, the “print-on-demand” section at the Leipzig location will be closed. This means that around 40 employees will lose their jobs. But what is behind this decision?

How lvz.de reported, the service, which enables books to be printed and sent to order, will be continued at the Erfurt location in the future. Although Amazon has announced that employees have the opportunity to move to other departments in Leipzig or equivalent positions in Erfurt, the Verdi union still sees major challenges in doing so. Verdi particularly criticizes the uncertainty and lack of communication from the company.

Difficult decisions and lack of transparency

On July 15, the union expressed concern about the planned closure. It is feared that this measure could not only affect the 40 employees directly affected, but also adjacent areas and suppliers. In a letter, Verdi calls for an immediate halt to the closure plans until all alternatives have been examined, as well as socially acceptable solutions for employees, including training offers. The L-IZ emphasizes that the dialogue between management and the union must be strengthened in order to secure the interests of employees.

Verdi's secretary, Thomas Schneider, classified the decision as not sufficiently communicated. Amazon, on the other hand, emphasizes that an exchange took place with the works council and that the decision was perceived as difficult. However, the right to transparent information and participation is a cornerstone of the work of trade unions that have been committed to the interests of employees for over 150 years. Loud bpb.de Their most important task is to regulate working conditions through collective agreements.

The role of trade unions

Trade unions are therefore not only responsible for future-proof jobs, but also for the social and economic representation of their members. Despite declines in the number of members since the 1980s, their relevance in the labor market remains high. The legal basis for trade unions in Germany is anchored in Article 9 of the Basic Law, which guarantees freedom of association. This strength is also reflected in the current situation: Verdi is examining possible labor law measures against the closure of the sub-area and is calling on management to have an open dialogue.

Regardless of the decisions that still need to be made, one thing remains clear: the closure of the “print-on-demand” area in Leipzig is more than just a personnel matter. It raises questions about transparency in corporate governance and the support employees need in such uncertain times.

How the situation will develop further remains to be seen. However, it is clear that there is a need for action here to protect the interests of the employees affected and to offer them the opportunity to have a perspective instead of leaving them in uncertainty.