14 hours ago
Amazon expects to have as many robots as human staff by 2027
Amazon currently operates over one million robots in its fulfillment network, aiming to match its 1.56 million human workforce by the end of next year.
These robots, including mobile units and advanced arms like Vulcan, assist in about 75 percent of Amazon's global deliveries, with an AI system called DeepFleet coordinating traffic.
The company claims automation has led to reduced physical strain and improved workplace safety. It has also led to a sharp decrease in average warehouse staffing to 670 people, the lowest in 16 years.
Delivery productivity has significantly increased, with packages shipped per employee annually growing from 175 in 2015 to nearly 3,870.
While some workers have transitioned to higher-paid technical roles, CEO Andy Jassy anticipates further workforce reductions, and labor advocates express concern about future job displacement.
