Rite Aid To Hire 5,000 Associates and Expand COVID-19 Activities

Today, Rite Aid (NYSE: RAD) announced expanded actions the company is taking in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning immediately, Rite Aid plans to hire 5,000 associates for full and part-time roles across the country to support store and distribution center teams. Positions will include cashiers, pharmacy technicians and distribution center associates. To view available positions and apply please visit https://careers.info.riteaid.com/.

Rite Aid Associates

Rite Aid associates are key to providing communities with medications, essential supplies and COVID-19 related information. To show appreciation for their exceptional commitment, Rite Aid created a Hero Program to recognize their efforts.

As part of that program, hourly associates (who work in Rite Aid stores, RediClinic locations or distribution centers) are receiving a Hero Pay increase of $2 per hour, which began March 15, 2020, and is to last through at least May 2, 2020. Additionally, current retail store management, including pharmacists, distribution center management and RediClinic professional associates, have received a Hero Bonus of $1,000. Rite Aid also increased its associate discount to 35% beginning Tuesday, March 24 until at least the end of April 2020.

Rite Aid has also established specific guidelines related to leaves of absence related to COVID-19 to provide greater flexibility for those impacted by the virus. This includes a “Pandemic Pay” policy, which ensures associates are compensated if diagnosed with the virus or quarantined because of exposure.

Rite Aid has implemented specific internal protocols during the pandemic to keep its associates safe and ready to serve customers. In addition to allowing associates to wear masks and gloves at their discretion, Rite Aid is making enhancements to the many health and safety procedures already in place at its stores. The company is in the process of installing Plexiglas shields at pharmacy and front end counters to provide additional protection for associates and customers.

“Rite Aid is on the front lines in helping Americans cope with the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Heyward Donigan, president and chief executive officer, Rite Aid. “We are working around the clock to ensure we are doing our part to provide Rite Aid’s associates, customers, and communities with what they need during these unprecedented times – from medication delivery to ensuring clean, safe and stocked stores. I couldn’t be more proud of the tireless work and dedication of the entire team – from our store associates and pharmacists to all those in our distribution facilities and across our supply chain. They have shown the true meaning of teamwork and commitment to meet the challenges our neighbors and country are facing, and I thank them.”