E-commerce giant Amazon announced recently that it would pay over $500 million in thank you bonuses to its frontline workers that worked for the organization through June. Frontline workers are those that have been most at risk on contracting the coronavirus.
“Our front-line operations teams have been on an incredible journey over the last few months, and we want to show our appreciation with a special one-time Thank You bonus totaling over $500 million,” said Amazon senior vice president of worldwide operations Dave Clark in a note about the bonuses.
This bonus amount varies for different employees. For instance, full-time employees of Amazon, Amazon-owned Whole Foods, or drivers for delivery service partners will be paid $500 whereas their part-time counterparts and drivers will receive an amount of $250. Front-line leaders at Amazon and Whole Foods will get $1,000 while delivery service partner owners, who help get packages to customers, will be paid an amount of $3,000.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, when prefer staying home and getting groceries, provisions, and essential products delivered to their door step, Amazon has seen a massive surge in its demand and usage. However, it has also faced intense scrutiny over its policies to protect its employees. Recently, it was also criticized for cutting its $2-an-hour coronavirus hazard pay in the beginning of June.
Meanwhile, retail giant Walmart also announced bonuses to its employees, which include Walmart store and Sam’s Club associates, supply chain and office employees, truck drivers and assistant managers.
These frontline workers deserve all the incentives for the amazing work they are doing to keep the rest of us safe. Do you agree? Let us know your views in the comments section below.
