Kroger to Invest More Than $770M in Associates in 2023; Rodney McMullen and Tim Massa Comment
CINCINNATI, OH - One of the most rewarding investments we can make in the produce industry is in the well-being of our people. Kroger is doing just that, recently announcing that it will be making an incremental investment of $770 million in its associates during 2023. The investment will be used to raise average hourly rates, improve healthcare options, build new training, and more.
"Our associates enable our success, and we are committed to investing in theirs," said Rodney McMullen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "For so many, Kroger represents a first job, a new beginning, or a change in career path. Continuing to raise wages and provide excellent benefits to our associates is one way we demonstrate how much we value and respect their contributions."
This $770M investment builds on the $1.9 billion incremental investments in wages and comprehensive benefits Kroger has made since 2018. That previous effort raised the company's average hourly rate to $18 or $23.50 per hour with comprehensive benefits.
According to a press release, other Kroger investments include:
- A world-class educational benefit program that offers associates up to $21,000 toward continuing education opportunities
- Affordable and accessible healthcare options, which include free counseling through the company's Well-Being Assistant
- First-of-its-kind free financial coaching services available to all hourly associates
- A simple and intuitive onboarding experience to ensure every associate is confident in their role and ready to support their customers
"Investing in our associates' holistic well-being is an essential part of what makes Kroger an employer of choice, and ultimately becomes an investment in our customers and communities," said Tim Massa, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer. "When we think about how we build our benefits, we want to enable every associate to thrive financially and emotionally—both in their careers and at home. We look forward to continuing to celebrate our associates and the many ways they show up for our customers and each other every day."
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