Kroger to pay workers who get COVID-19 vaccine $ 100

(Reuters) – Supermarket chain Kroger Co said on Friday it would give workers $ 100 to get vaccinated against COVID-19, joining a growing list of U.S. retailers urging employees to get vaccinated against the novel coronavirus as soon as as possible.

Kroger, which also operates Ralphs and Harris Teeter among other banners in 35 states, has hired more than 100,000 new workers to meet increased demand amid coronavirus lockdowns.

The company said it will also invest an additional $ 50 million in rewards for associates, including $ 100 store credit and 1,000 fuel points for hourly staff.

Other retailers that have taken similar steps to encourage their U.S. employees to get vaccinated include Dollar General, German supermarket chain Aldi, Instacart, and Trader Joe’s.

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people over 75 and essential workers should receive the vaccine in a later phase, after healthcare workers and residents of nursing homes.