Logistics partner’s failure to compensate workers costs Amazon $80,000

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If you want a good reason why Amazon wants to take greater control of its supply chain, you need look no further. Fifty-two employees of Florida trucking firm VHU Express were not properly paid for Amazon deliveries between December and February, and this week were awarded $80,000 in compensation by a judge. However, Amazon has confirmed that it stepped in and paid the fine on VHU’s behalf and subsequently cancelled its contract with the company. This is expected to be the first of many such cases. “The rising popularity of Amazon’s online marketplace, and its promise of two-day free shipping for Prime subscribers have considerably increased delivery workloads for the company. Many of its traditional courier partners have not been able to keep up with this growth.”