‘Hero Pay’ out, ‘Thank You Pay’ in: Kroger workers to get different coronavirus bonus

After ending coronavirus “Hero Pay” bonuses for employees, Kroger announced a new pay bonus for employees.

America’s largest supermarket chain announced Friday that it will provide “Thank You Pay” for hourly employees “to acknowledge their dedication to maintaining safe, clean and stocked stores,” according to a company news release.

Days before, Kroger-owned stores, including Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter and Ralphs, announced it would be slashing a $2 per hour coronavirus essential-worker bonus come Sunday, McClatchy News reported.

Now, the company says hourly grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates will receive the “Thank You Pay” bonuses, which will be $400 for some full-time employees and $200 for part-time, according to a news release.

The money will be paid May 30 and June 18 in two installments, Kroger said. Altogether employees will receive $130 million.

“As the country moves toward reopening, we will continue to safeguard our associates’ health and well-being and recognize their work,” Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO, said in the news release. “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.”

This story was originally published May 15, 2020 at 5:37 PM with the headline "‘Hero Pay’ out, ‘Thank You Pay’ in: Kroger workers to get different coronavirus bonus."