COVID-19 has impacted everyone and it is important for individuals, families, and companies to stick together and help one another during this difficult time. Lowe’s continues to step up to the plate, announcing several additional changes that will further support its associates and customers. The latest change is an additional $80 million payment to support its hourly associates. Lowe’s is making this payment in recognition of the efforts of its dedicated associates in an effort to assist with the unplanned expenses and hardships that countless people, particularly those working on the front lines of grocery and hardware stores, are facing. The payment is being made for the month of May and is matching the payment the company made back in March.
This means that all hourly employees at Lowe’s are going to receive an additional payment of $300 while seasonal and part-time associates are going to receive $150. Now, the total commitment that Lowe’s has made to its associates and communities is $250 million. Furthermore, Lowe’s is continuing to offer paid time off for their qualified associates as well as telemedicine benefits for all seasonal, part-time, and full-time hourly associates and their families. These benefits are included even for those who are not currently enrolled in the medical benefits plans provided by Lowe’s. This simply shows that many companies are taking their employees under their wings and providing them with assistance during a difficult time.
In addition to protecting their employees, Lowe’s is also taking additional steps to protect their customers. They are requiring all of their associates to wear a face mask or other approved face covering while working at Lowe’s or while working at a customer’s home. While it can be a challenge for employees to find a face covering, Lowe’s is also providing masks and gloves for all of their associates making this issue easier.
Lowe’s has also implemented curbside pick-up and home delivery options for purchases that are made online. This allows people to get what they need without having to go into a store. This is particularly useful for elderly populations who are most vulnerable to COVID-19.
Lowe’s is also using a mobile app to monitor how many people are in their stores. They are doing this to limit the number of customers in their stores to help ensure that social distancing measures are implemented, protecting their customers and their associates. Finally, Lowe’s has also changed the layouts of its aisles. This will add more space throughout the rows, making it easier to enforce social distancing measures. This comes in addition to the shields that placed in front of cash registers to shield both cashiers and customers.