AMAZON has upped its bonuses in parts of the UK - with some areas seeing new starters given £3,000 to join.

The online retailer, which has sites across the North East including Durham, Darlington and Gateshead, is paying the huge sum ahead of a busy festive period.

Warehouses in Peterborough, Exeter and Southampton are among those where 'sortation operatives' are currently being offered the significant bonus.

Read more: Amazon recruiting 2,000 seasonal workers in Durham, Darlington and Gateshead

However in the North East, the retailer is instead offering a bonus of £1,500 for roles based at its smaller delivery sites in Washington, Gateshead and Jarrow.

The Northern Echo:

The new DNE2 distribution centre in Follingsby Max, Gateshead Picture: JIM SCOTT

It comes as Amazon previously launched a £1,000 bonus for new starters to join its three Fulfilment Centres, which has now ended following a big recruitment drive.

Read more: Amazon confirm £1k bonus for new starters will INCLUDE Darlington

On the Amazon website, it suggests those who take up the roles as 'sortation operatives' at its smaller sites will get the full £1,500 bonus if they sign up before November 6.

It also states there is a £1,000 'Refer a Friend' bonus paid out if new applicants also sign up before November 6.

However, it is understood that the bonus is less in the North East as the level of payments differ depending on location, but it is being kept under review.

Amazon did not confirm whether this is because of living costs, but it is believed the roles offered elsewhere are predominantly in areas where costs are higher.

What Amazon has said

In a statement, Amazon said: “Amazon is hiring for 20,000 seasonal positions across its UK network during the festive season, including 2,000 roles in the North East of England.

"Pay for Operations roles starts at a minimum of £10.00 per hour rising to £11.10 per hour in some parts of the UK for all full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal roles.

"We are also currently offering a sign on bonus at a number of locations to attract new permanent and seasonal associates.”

Amazon previously said it was offering bonuses as part of its campaign to recruit staff ahead of the Christmas period, when the retailer is expected to be at its busiest.

Reports in the national media that some bonuses had been "doubled" to achieve the £3,000 pay offered elsewhere attracted criticism from smaller firms.

Ian Wright, chief executive of the Food and Drink Federation, said the bonuses being advertised for staff was a “knock-out blow” for smaller companies. 

The Guardian reported that Mr Wright believed workers being tempted to join Amazon could then have a knock on effect for Christmas deliveries and supplies.

To view the Amazon jobs paying the £1,500 bonus in the North East - click here

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