Last week, the Daily Mirror and ITV News reported that agency workers had had difficulties getting paid and were being subjected to zero-hours contracts on Amazon work assignments, even though Amazon has contended that it does not use such arrangements. The reports were based on interviews with workers and a scrutiny of Amazon work environments by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism.

Both Adecco and PMP Recruitment are REC members. Asked to comment, the REC released a statement saying: “The REC routinely investigates allegations made against members through our compliance process. We note the ITV report relating to late payment and working of job adverts, and the statements made by the parties in it. We will be seeking further details from the firms involved. 

“The REC’s code of practice is signed by all of our members. If anyone is found to be in breach of it they are dealt with under the REC’s Complaints and Disciplinary Procedure.”

Recruiter has put media enquiries forward to Amazon, Adecco and PMP.

An Adecco spokesperson said: “The welfare of our associates is an absolute priority for us and we work closely with clients to ensure they have the best possible experience. Associates are paid fairly and we offer up to 40 hours per week of work, part time or flexible shifts. We are in regular communication with all our associates to ensure they have a clear understanding of their work assignments and we will always endeavour to find opportunities that best suit their requirements.”

This is not the first time REC members have found themselves accused of poor treatment of their agency workers at employers with large warehouses. In 2016, the Best Connection and Transline were at the centre of a poor working conditions scandal involving Sports Direct. The next year, Transline was axed from its contract arrangement with Amazon.

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