INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — Kroger is rewarding workers who have kept stores moving during the coronavirus pandemic.
The company announced a "hero bonus" for workers in the front lines of their grocery stores, as well as their supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center employees. The increase is a $2 premium added to their standard base pay rate for hours worked between March 29 and April 18.
The company announced a one-time bonus for frontline employees on March 21. That bonus will pay out on Friday, April 3. The new premium will be paid weekly.
"Our associates have displayed the true actions of a hero, working tirelessly on the frontlines to ensure everyone has access to affordable, fresh food and essentials during this national emergency," Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO, said in a release.
Kroger said Tuesday the company is also offering emergency paid leave for employees who are affected by COVID-19, from those who are self-isolating with symptoms of the virus to those who have been diagnosed and placed in quarantine. There is also now $5 million available for workers who face hardship related to the outbreak and access to mental health services.
