One reader's top tips and experience of boycotting Amazon
We asked our readers about their strategies for avoiding Amazon, what's been hard and what's been the best thing about it. The responses were many and diverse – just how we like it!
Among the variety of answers, we noticed some similarities though: most of the readers agreed that a positive consequence of boycotting Amazon has been them becoming more conscious about what they buy, and when. They have also been concerned about the disappearance of high street shops, small businesses and, with these, a feeling of community.
Here is one of the responses, from Abi Simson who is a decorator from Bristol.
EC: How long have you been boycotting Amazon?
Abi: I've been boycotting Amazon for approximately three years.
What are the main reasons for you boycotting the company?
The main reason, originally, was their unethical employment practices. With prices so low it would be impossible to pay living wages and make profits at the same time. I understood that exploitation of workers must be part of their business strategy. Their ethos of 'have it now' I felt created an unhealthy consumer mindset both within myself and society in general.
It also angered me that they do not pay taxes (I am self-employed and do pay my taxes).
What’s been the hardest thing about it?
When buying electrical goods and certain Christmas presents. For example, a couple of Christmases ago my street decided to all buy tree lights and EVERYONE was using Amazon. I searched for days to find the same lights ethically and found Amazon was the only supplier. I ended up getting some different ones and mine was the only tree out of alignment with the rest. This did have one positive benefit – my neighbours noticed and therefore I explained my feelings towards Amazon so a dialogue was started.
What’s been the best thing about it?
My consumer guilt has reduced. I used to constantly feel bad for supporting them and now I don't. Also, it has reduced my need to have things immediately. I consider my purchases more than ever and generally buy less.
Have you got any tips for how to boycott Amazon?
My biggest tip for avoiding Amazon is to really ask myself: do I honestly need this? Discuss with other people when buying presents and suggest more independent alternatives. I also use charity shops for almost everything.
Borrowing and sharing certain equipment with friends and neighbours means I don't always need to buy my own products and vice versa for them.
How has Amazon affected your life, community, or business?
Amazon is contributing to the destruction of our city centres, our ability to be patient and maybe even save up for things meaning that we value them more.
I'm so much happier without Amazon in my life.
