Pilot and Flying J locations remain open as essential retail

For professional drivers and others working to support their communities during COVID-19, there is little doubt that the locations operated by Pilot Company are considered essential retail.

More than 80% of communities rely solely on trucks to move their goods, and professional drivers deliver nearly 71% of all freight tonnage in the U.S., according to Pilot Company. To meet their needs, Pilot Company’s 780 Pilot and Flying J travel centers across the U.S. and Canada remain open and operational, including fuel islands, showers, laundry, restrooms and food.

The company, which is still hiring and accepting applications online, is taking several extra precautions, such as following social distancing guidelines and disinfecting frequently used surfaces, including gas pumps, door handles, restrooms and showers. 

Last week, the company announced new measures to thank team members, including its fuel drivers and those working in stores, for everything they're doing to keep vehicles fueled, showers and restrooms clean, and shelves stocked with food and drinks.

The initiatives include:

• "Thank you pay" for all store hourly team members to earn an additional $2/hour; 
• Free meal for store team members and company fuel delivery drivers  during every shift;
• Emergency pay plan for 14 days of paid time off for quarantine and recovery; and
• Manager bonus expedited and paid at 100% for eligible managers.

“We are extraordinarily grateful to the everyday heroes – from professional drivers to first responders and health care providers – who are working tirelessly to provide the care, services and supplies we need through this challenging time," said Jimmy Haslam, CEO of Pilot Company. "Thank you to our incredible team members for working together to keep our travel centers open, clean and fueling.”