Couche-Tard and Circle K enact COVID-19 emergency measures
by CM Staff
Many Couche-Tard and Circle K stores are designated as part of the emergency infrastructure to serve communities
Markers were installed on the floor to enforce social distancing at the checkout line. PHOTO: Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to escalate, Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary Circle K have implemented emergency measures for the health and safety of its customers and employees.
In many areas where Couche-Tard and Circle K operate, its stores are designated as part of the emergency infrastructure to serve communities.
“I know these are stressful, difficult days as we see the effects of this global pandemic on our lives, workplaces, and neighborhoods,” Brian Hannasch, president and CEO, said in a prepared statement. “Our team members are working hard to create impactful measures to serve our communities, and I have never been prouder to be the leader of this company.”
The company has put in place significant measures at its stores including:
- Enacting stringent cleaning measures several times daily;
- Increasing safety, hygiene, and packaging around food and beverages;
- Installing clear barriers at cash registers to protect customers and employees from possible exposure;
- Reinforcing best hygiene practices through digital media and display screens at registers;
- Marking stores for social distancing at the checkout line;
- Putting frequently asked questions and answers on its website concerning how stores are operating during COVID-19.
The company is also offering free coffee, tea, and pop to first responders and health care workers, as well as to store employees. According to the company, this will vary from province to province.
For the company’s hourly store employees, additional financial and healthcare measures have been implemented including:
- Emergency Sick Care Plan for hourly employees in North America that includes both a bank of sick pay hours, as well as a pay continuation benefit if someone is either diagnosed with COVID-19 or is placed under a mandatory quarantine.
- Emergency Appreciation Pay premium for store employees in North America of an additional $2.50 to base hourly rate of pay for all hours worked.
- Virtual wellness is being added as a benefit for U.S. hourly store employee who have concerns regarding the coronavirus.
