Economist Podcasts Leader of the package: Amazon turns 30
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Jul 4, 2024 
In a thought-provoking discussion, Guy Scriven, Technology editor at The Economist, delves into Amazon's 30-year journey from humble beginnings to a retail giant, highlighting the balance between consumer convenience and worker rights. Lena Shipper, South Asia bureau chief, sheds light on the explosive protests over cheating in India's university entrance exams, revealing the societal implications of educational scandals. They also discuss the durian fruit's rise as a geopolitical tool, showcasing its unexpected influence on international relations.
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Humble Beginnings
- Amazon's first office was humble, equipped with a fax machine.
- The initial job posting sought engineers who could design systems quickly.
Success Drivers
- Amazon's success stems from customer obsession, innovation, and experimentation.
- It reinvests profits and boasts the highest capital spending and R&D globally.
Workforce Dynamics
- Amazon's workforce size is substantial within its logistics network.
- Unionization efforts by warehouse workers have seemingly decreased recently.