Efforts to feed nation rewarded

IN AN effort to support and recognise devoted employees who will continue to work during the lockdown announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday night, the Shoprite group has set aside R102 million as a bonus for its employees.

The retail chain announced the once-off R102m appreciation bonus for its shop floor and distribution centre employees.

According to the group, the bonus was a way for them to thank and support their employees for their efforts to feed the nation in these unprecedented times.

The Shoprite Group is one of the largest supermarkets in the country and the biggest private employer.

The group, as per the regulations put in place by the government for the lockdown, will keep its doors open to the public, as an essential service.

It has vowed to implement strict hygiene protocols to protect the working staff who will be at the forefront, and its customers.

Shoprite also vowed to assist its distribution centre employees who were key players in the retail supply chain and will work to restock stores as quickly as possible.

Shoprite chief executive Pieter Engelbrecht said: “Our employees are crucial players in the task ahead and the group wants to thank and reward them for their tireless efforts to stock our shelves with food and other essentials for our 29 million shoppers.

“They will be paid the appreciation bonus next Thursday (April 2).

“This is one of the many measures we have initiated to support our most vital teams, including the supply of free hand sanitiser and expanded leave guidelines to cater for those affected.”

In addition to the remuneration announcement, the group was also urging customers to shop responsibly.

“Current gaps on supermarket shelves will be filled as our warehouses remain well stocked, and new stock will arrive regularly.

“We have also increased orders and are sourcing new and additional suppliers,” said Engelbrecht.