Published April 13, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic has changed many social dynamics in a very short amount of time, including how certain professions are viewed. Today’s heroes aren’t just hospital workers, but also include the men and women working to make sure people have access to groceries—and one of the largest U.S. supermarkets is making sure their associates know it’s appreciated.
As reported by Supermarket News, on April 3, the Kroger Co. gave a one-time $300 bonus to full-time associates and a $150 one-time bonus to part-time associates. That included “all hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing and customer service associates.” And Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen says he knows how hard they are working.
“Grocery workers are on the frontlines, ensuring Americans have access to the food and products they need during this unprecedented pandemic,” McCullen said in a statement. “Our associates are working around the clock to keep our stores open for customers. I am incredibly grateful for all they are doing. The true heroes in this story are our associates, and we want to provide them with additional resources and support to help them continue their remarkable effort.”
Kroger is also expanding their coronavirus emergency leave policy to include up to two weeks of paid time off for associates who are self-isolating and have had symptoms verified by a healthcare professional.