Amazon cut 30,000 corporate jobs to focus on AI. Now it’s promising 30,000 entry-level roles in the UK by 2030

The UK is experiencing a rising youth unemployment rate compared to older workers. In response, Amazon has launched a program called the Amazon Youth Promise, aimed at creating 30,000 new entry-level jobs in the UK by 2030. The initiative targets young workers and will also provide job training to individuals who are "not in education, employment or training" (Neets). Starting salaries will be £31,000 (approximately $41,500).

John Boumphrey, UK country manager for Amazon, shared that his visits to company sites reveal young individuals who lacked direction six months ago. They had no CV or experience, but possessed a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Despite recent recruitment announcements, such as plans to hire 300,000 seasonal workers for the holidays, Amazon has also reduced its white-collar workforce, shedding around 1,000 employees in India, the UK, and its retail business in early October. This follows a year of cutting 30,000 jobs to restructure its business and concentrate more on AI.

With approximately one million Neets in the UK, primarily in the largest cities, entry-level jobs are highly sought after. Amazon's initiative aligns with other employers, including Microsoft, Cisco, and IBM, who have pledged through the government's Youth Guarantee initiative to create more jobs for young Britons. UK Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden announced the Amazon Youth Promise, emphasizing the government's commitment to "getting Britain working" and supporting employers who share the ambition of creating opportunities across the country.