HOUSTON, TX - Emphasizing the importance of its employees in its operations, Kroger Houston has announced that it will be investing $56 million in its associates through wage increases as well as steps to ensure access to reliable, affordable health care options.

"Kroger's commitment to increase wages and ensure our associates have access to world-class affordable, secure and reliable health care benefits is a core priority for the company," said Joe Kelley, President of Kroger's Houston Division. "Our plan removes any uncertainty frontline associates experience with their current health and welfare trust fund plan. We believe this is the right path forward for our associates."

The new $56 million investment comes from months of negotiations between the retailer and the UFCW Local 455 union, according to a press release.

Kroger’s investment will include:

• Every frontline Houston associate will recieve an increase in pay over the next six months
• Kroger Houston will spend more than $75 million annually on health care for hourly associates
• Kroger Houston associates will pay just $32 for individual coverage or $172 for family coverage each month in a company-administered plan

Associates health care coverage will transition to a company-sponsored plan from the previous plan from South-Central Health and Welfare Fund. This step will help ensure stable, affordable, secure health benefits for all Kroger Houston associates moving forward.

As Kroger continues to invest in its company and associates, where will its next investment be? AndNowUKnow will report on the latest.

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