Kroger has made free COVID-19 testing available to its frontline associates, based on symptoms and medical need. Tests will be offered through a combination of self-administered kits and the company’s public drive-thru testing sites.
“At Kroger, the safety and health of our associates and customers remains our top priority during this unprecedented time,” said Tim Massa, SVP and Chief People Officer at Kroger in a statement. “Our associates have worked tirelessly to provide communities continued access to fresh, affordable food. We are dedicated to providing support and gratitude to our associates across the country.”
Kroger is in the process of rolling out 50 testing locations in 12 states by the end of May, up from the current 13 locations in six states. The sites, like those rolled out by Walgreens, CVS and others, let patients use self-administered kits to test themselves while remaining in their cars.
The grocery retailer also has increased its investment in personal protective equipment, including masks for all associates, and improved the benefits package offered to employees. Kroger also is using its $5 million Helping Hands fund to provide financial assistance to associates who are facing personal hardship due to COVID-19, and continuing to expand its “Blueprint for Businesses” guide, which now includes information on meeting the needs of employees in multiple workplace settings.
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Amazon also has been building up its own internal testing capabilities, with the goal of being able to check all employees as needed regardless of whether they’re showing symptoms. The retail giant has opened a lab and reassigned a team of employees to create a dedicated testing unit.
