What Happened

Amazon workers at seven fulfillment centers across the United States went on strike on December 19th, 2024. Impacted locations included New York City, Atlanta, Southern California, San Francisco, and Skokie, Illinois. The strike was organized by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters after Amazon failed to negotiate contracts guaranteeing better wages and working conditions.

What This Means for Your Small Business

Small businesses that have online stores, independent business owners that sell handmade products, and freelancers that offer subscription-based products and services may all be impacted by the Amazon strike.

For e-commerce retailers, there may be delays in shipping which could lead to missed holiday sales opportunities and frustrated customers. For independent business owners who rely on Amazon for affordable logistics, there may be bottlenecks in the supply chain that disrupt operations. And for freelancers offering subscription-based products and services, there may be interruptions in recurring delivery schedules that could result in customer dissatisfaction and cancellations.

Unfortunately, all of the above could also result in higher shipping costs and slower delivery times for your business.

How Can Your Small Business Navigate the Strike

Higher costs, slower delivery times, and upset customers are challenges small businesses will have to deal with during the Amazon strike. Here are some ways to mitigate these negatives:

• Communicate Transparently: Keep customers informed about potential delays and offer realistic timelines for delivery. Use email updates, social media posts, and website banners to manage expectations and maintain trust. Also, be sure to respond promptly to inquiries, offer refunds or discounts for major delays, and show empathy in your communications.

• Diversify Shipping Options: Explore partnerships with other carriers, such as FedEx, UPS, or local delivery services. Consider experimenting with regional courier services that may be more agile during this time.

• Leverage Local Pickup: Encourage nearby customers to pick up their purchases directly, bypassing shipping delays altogether. Offering incentives, such as discounts for local pickup, can make this option more attractive.

• Offer Digital Products or Services: For businesses able to do so, pivot to digital offerings, such as gift cards, online consultations, or downloadable products. These virtual products or services can help maintain revenue streams without relying on physical delivery.

• Monitor the Strike’s Progress: Stay informed about updates and potential resolutions to the strike. Adjust your strategies accordingly to minimize disruptions and capitalize on new opportunities.

So, while the Amazon strike may hurt your business in the short term, following the above steps can help prevent any long-term damage. Use the information in this article to ensure your business remains adaptable and ready to handle any future disruptions.