Kroger providing special $130M pay for associates

Kroger is providing a special "thank you" pay to its hourly front-line grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates.

“Our associates have been instrumental in feeding America, while also helping to flatten the curve during the initial phases of the pandemic. To recognize and thank our associates for their incredible work during this historic time, we offered special pay in March, April and May,” Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO, said.

The Cincinnati-based retailer is setting aside $130 million to employees, which bookends an appreciation pay given to front-line workers at the beginning of the pandemic in March and follows various bonuses awarded in April through mid-May.

Qualified full-time associates will receive $400, while part-time associates will be given $200, which will be paid out in two installments on May 30 and June 18.

“As the country moves toward reopening, we will continue to safeguard our associates' health and well-being, and recognize their work, McMullen said. "At the same time, we will continue running a sustainable business that provides steady employment and opportunities to learn and grow for over half a million associates.”

In addition, Kroger will continue its COVID-19 emergency leave guidelines to provide paid time off to associates who are directly affected by the virus or experiencing symptoms, the company said.

“We want our associates to continue to feel supported in prioritizing their health,” Tim Massa, Kroger's senior vice president and chief people officer, said. “Our associates should only be working if they are healthy and symptom-free. By continuing paid emergency leave, our associates most directly affected by the virus or experiencing related symptoms should feel supported in staying home, promoting a safer environment to work and shop in.”