ALDI's bold move to pay employees to take COVID-19 vaccine
The US arm of grocery chain ALDI will provide its employees with up to four hours of paid time off to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Announcing the move overnight, ALDI US said it will provide up to two hours of full pay for each dose of the vaccine staff receive.
Due to the current vaccine requiring two doses, the total number of hours equates to four.
Employees on salaries will be given more flexibility to receive the vaccine at their own convenience.
ALDI US will also set up on-site vaccination clinics at its warehouses and offices.
CEO Jason Hart said the grocer was focused on supporting frontline workers without forcing them to take a day off to receive the vaccine.
"Since the onset of the pandemic, our entire ALDI team has worked to keep stores safe and stocked, and serve communities without interruption," Mr Hart said.
"Providing accommodations so employees can receive this critical vaccine is one more way we can support them and eliminate the need to choose between earning their wages and protecting their well-being."
Speaking to 9News, ALDI Australia said it will follow government advice when the vaccine is introduced locally.
"We have and always will continue to support all Government health advice regarding the management of COVID-19 in Australia; the roll-out of a COVID-19 vaccine will not be exempt from this approach," an ALDI spokesperson said.
"We remain committed to supporting Australia's leading health professionals to take all recommended measures to maintain the safety of our employees, business partners and customers."