In response to the Wednesday-aired documentary, on German TV Channel ARD, which highlighted the plight of temporary employees hired by agencies on Amazon's behalf, the online retail giant said in a Thursday statement that it would initiate investigations into German worker abuse claims.

With media reports over the past few weeks having already brought the apparently poor working standards at Amazon under the scanner, the documentary aired by TV Channel ARD gives a disquietingly dismal view of the online retailer's packing and distribution centers in Germany.

Drawing attention to the fact that the temporary staff at Amazon's logistics centers in Germany is being caused to experience a climate of intimidation, the documentary features interviews with temporary workers who have been hired by the company through agencies and live on site.

According to the documentary, the temporary workers have disclosed that not only are they being paid less than what they had been promised; but also face constant searches, and are intimidated by security staff dressed in clothes linked to Germany's neo-Nazi scene.

In reaction to the revelations brought forth in the documentary, Amazon spokeswoman Ulrike Stoecker said in an emailed statement to The Associated Press that Amazon "tolerates no discrimination or intimidation"; and added: "Even though the security company wasn't hired by Amazon, we are of course examining the allegations. and will take appropriate measures immediately."