Amazon pledges 30,000 jobs for Neets ahead of Budget

Amazon pledges to create 30,000 entry-level roles for young people by the end of the decade through its "Youth Promise" program, addressing the growing issue of youth unemployment in the UK. The tech giant's jobs will include full-time and seasonal positions, with each job paying at least £31,000 per year. John Boumphrey, Amazon UK's country manager, explained that the initiative aims to reach and support more young people in areas where first chances for employment are scarce.

Employers across various sectors have been increasingly making youth hiring pledges in recent months, pressing the government to reduce the costs of hiring new workers, which have significantly risen since budget reforms in 2024. Other companies such as Tesco, Boots, McDonald's, and Nando's have joined the sector-wide effort to create 100,000 new jobs.

Amazon had initially anticipated a warehouse tax during the recent budget, which would have increased business rates for online retailers to fund tax cuts for physical stores. However, Chancellor John Healey ruled out the measure following strong opposition from retail leaders, including John Lewis. Healey will instead make online retailers like Amazon responsible for collecting tax from sellers who utilize their platforms, a move that was welcomed by Amazon.

The UK government plans to offer 10,000 work experience placements in the tech sector, aimed at boosting the economy by encouraging tech firms to provide 20,000 entry-level jobs annually. Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the importance of providing young people with opportunities to gain experience in the thriving digital and tech industry, stating that job prospects should not depend on where an individual lives or their educational background.