In 2020, many companies around the United States needed to cut back on their employees' wages or hours. However, one famous San Antonio-based hamburger chain, Whataburger, gave out $90 million to its essential workers. Find out how and why...
Whataburger Family Members
When Whataburger emerged onto the scene in 1950, it had just one location. Now, it has over 840 locations in 50 states! As such, it also has thousands of employees on its payroll. And, as any restaurant worker can tell you, the coronavirus made 2020 the most challenging, heartbreaking year in a very long time. Thankfully, many Whataburger employees have found themselves blessed amid the pandemic. Following one of the most brutal years ever, the burger joint decided to do something extraordinary. After hours of working in masks, through all types of weather, with longer lines than ever before, these essential workers received massive bonuses.
"The past year reshaped how we live, work and play, with the restaurant and hospitality industry being heavily impacted by the pandemic and this year's crippling winter storms. We are so humbled and grateful for the loyalty of our customers during this time," Ed Nelson, Whataburger CEO, said in a statement. "And we wanted to help ensure that our Family Members and their families were taken care of and thank them for continuing to go the extra mile to serve our guests with great Pride, Care, and Love. Our Family Members and guests are the foundation of our success, and we are grateful for both."
The company also wanted to make sure that people knew it was sincere. After all, some can find it a tad cringey, calling employees "family." However, Nelson and Whataburger seem committed to the idea. The fast-food chain is helping their employees with more perks than ever before and a whole lot more...
Amazing Bonuses
In case you didn't know, fast food sales went through the roof last year, given the lack of indoor dining. So, when Whataburger made over $2.5 billion in sales in 2020, the company knew it needed to give back. Now, employees are eligible for new benefits like gas coverage, emergency pay, and even doubling of their 401(k) plan matching! Meanwhile, the company has already given out millions in individual bonuses and plans to continue with them. Now, this is a company that knows how to take care of its employees!
For Whataburger fans, this is just more of what they've come to know and love from the brand. The company has become famous for its goodwill gestures. For instance, in 2019, the fast-food chain made headlines for throwing a party for an employee's sick dog. In fact, Whataburger loves to give back to the community, particularly to animals. Most recently, it gave customers discounts if they first donated to a food bank or animal shelter. What a fantastic idea! We can't wait to see what this tremendous fast-food chain does next!
Sources: MSN, The Takeout