In this case, Amazon implemented their own minimum wage which of course is fine. But now we see them eliminating these entry jobs with robotics immediately after the significant wage increase. Coincidence?
As for a Federal minimum wage? No, there shouldn't be. It's not their place. Businesses compete for labor and that self regulates wages. A federal minimum sets the bar low and thus becomes the automatic wage in an entry level job. That wage would likely be higher without the federal mandate.
As for a the idea of a $15 federal minimum? That would be devastating. Automation would take over most low skill jobs eliminating the important starting point for young people. We already see order kiosks at fast food restaurants. The next step is machines that actually assemble burgers/sandwiches which does exist and is waiting to be implemented if the wage reaches a breaking point.
Automation is coming for millions more jobs in this economy. Retail workers, call center workers, fast food workers, truck drivers, and on and on throughout the economy. The level of the minimum wage is irrelevant. If the minimum wage was indexed to inflation or productivity it would be well over $20/hr. We are at a crossroads, near a large shift in our economy, not unlike the Industrial Revolution of the past. Many are going to be left behind. I wouldn't encourage anyone to see UPS as a future career.
I believe this is the last days of a unionized UPS. With the vote no movement, social media, the forcing of the contract on members, there is going to be a lot of anger and resentment on the employee side at the end of this agreement. Turn by turn directions, Orion, driverless truck in feeders. I think the company will take this opportunity to bust the union.
Some interesting videos discussing automation, the changing economy, and a universal basic income.