Mondelez pledges secure food supply amid COVID-19 pandemic

24 Mar 2020 --- Mondelēz International US is undergoing a series of actions that will enhance its ability as a large American food manufacturer, to keep its food supply going, protect its employees and support communities impacted by COVID-19. This includes enhanced benefits and support for its US workforce, the hiring of additional colleagues and a global commitment to donate US$15 million to community partners advancing COVID-19 relief efforts in the US specifically but also around the world. The company will continue to monitor the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and provide further updates to programs and policies as appropriate.

“As one of the largest food companies in the country, we play a critical role in safeguarding the US food supply. In this time of heightened need, we are working in close collaboration with customers and local communities to ensure that production lines remain operational, distribution networks continue to work efficiently, and US consumers have access to foods on shelves,” says Glen Walter, EVP and President, North America. 

Enhanced US colleague support and benefits
The company has already implemented enhanced protocols and protections to provide a safe and sanitary work environment for our colleagues, including significant steps to support employees in its manufacturing facilities, distribution and logistics operations and sales organizations. In the US, Mondelēz is announcing additional support for its employees who are doing such important work during this challenging time, including:

• A US$2 per-hour increase, based on number of hours worked (paid as a lump sum), through May 02, for its Manufacturing, Distribution and Sales hourly workforce;

• A US$125 per-week bonus for Sales Representatives. 

These benefits will go to the more than 10,000 frontline colleagues who are making, selling and distributing products to retail partners across the country. In addition, any impacted US-based employees will receive up to two additional weeks of paid leave at 100 percent of pay, less any statutory pay received for the same period. The company will continue to assess further needs and opportunities to support employees as the situation evolves. 

“The health, safety and well-being of our colleagues and communities is our highest priority as we come together to address this unprecedented health crisis. I am so proud of the tremendous dedication and commitment of our teams under these trying circumstances and thank everyone for all that they are doing,” explains Walter. “We are committed to providing our people with the support that they need as they ensure the continuity of the US food supply.”

Hiring additional employees
To meet additional marketplace demand and reinforce its current workforce, Mondelēz also expects to hire 1,000 frontline US employees to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of its distribution and sales network in the coming months. 

Mondelēz knows it has an important role to play in helping the communities and populations that have been hit hardest by COVID-19. The company is committed to supporting organizations that are responding to food instability and emergency relief by committing to make US$15 million in financial and donations through the Mondelēz International Foundation and global and local brand initiatives.

Edited by Elizabeth Green