Lowe’s ups employee support with new bonuses; requires workers to wear masks

Lowe’s announced additional measures to support its employees and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The home improvement said it is providing a second $80 million special payment to hourly workers. Also, as of May 1, all Lowe's employees are required to wear a face mask when working in stores or at customers' homes.

The special payment matches the payment Lowe’s made in March. All full-time hourly employees will receive a payment of $300, and all part-time and seasonal ones will receive $150, increasing Lowe's total commitment to employees by $250 million.  

The retailer said it will also continue to offer paid time off for qualified associates and telemedicine benefits for all full-time, part-time and seasonal hourly associates and their families even if they are not enrolled in Lowe's medical benefits plan. 

“The changes we’ve announced today underscore our commitment to associates and our recognition of their unwavering support for our customers and communities,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s CEO and president. “We know how hard associates are working to help us keep our promise to communities that we will be here for them during difficult times.”

Lowe’s noted it has implemented a number of practices during the past several weeks. Using a mobile app, Lowe's store managers will continue monitoring store occupancy, and limit customer traffic when necessary to help enforce social distancing.

Lowe’s stores have changed layouts to allow for more space in aisles as well as installed plexiglass protective shields at all point of sale areas to protect cashiers and customers. This is in addition to curbside pick-up and at-home delivery options for online purchases nationwide.

This story was originally published on HBSdealer.com.