US supermarket chain Walmart is to reward its 1.5 million hourly-paid employees with a special bonus to recognise them for their efforts during the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.
Full-time employees at Walmart and Sam's Club will receive $300 (£242) and part-time and temporary employees will be given $150 (£121). The bonus, which will be paid out to all US employees on 24 December 2020, is to recognise their hard work during the pandemic and is estimated to cost Walmart $388 (£292) million.
On 25 November, Walmart additionally rewarded all employees with a quarterly bonus worth $319 (£240) million following on from a strong third-quarter business performance.
The organisation also put in place an emergency leave policy in March 2020, which provides employees up to two weeks of pay if they are forced to stay at home due to Covid-19 (Coronavirus)-related reasons. This leave policy is extended until the 5 July 2021.
John Furner, chief executive at Walmart US, said: "As we come to a close on this historic year, I am filled with gratitude for how our employees have led through one of the most trying periods for our organisation and country. Our staff have stepped up to serve our customers, communities and each other when it was truly needed most, and we are pleased to recognise their efforts with a quarterly bonus for strong store performance and a fourth special cash bonus."
Kath McLay, president at Sam’s Club, added: "This has been an extraordinary year, and we are so proud of how our employees have continued to make a meaningful difference in our communities. The bonus reflects our appreciation for our staff, who show up to work each day to serve and provide relief for millions of members across the country."
