One-time financial gift of $6 million to be shared among staff
In recognition of staff’s “extraordinary efforts” during the pandemic, IKEA Canada has announced provide a one-time financial gift of roughly $6 million to be shared among eligible co-workers.
The amount is part of a C$159-million gift announced globally by Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer to which IKEA Canada belongs.
“Since the early days of the pandemic, we have been focused on maintaining the livelihoods of our teams and supporting our co-workers in the best possible way, aligned with our values and commitment to helping create a better everyday life for the many," says Tanja Fratangeli, head of people and culture at IKEA Canada. "From health and safety protocols to wellness days, this gift of appreciation is another demonstration of our commitment to our Canadian co-workers."
Employees have helped to accelerate newer solutions such as Virtual Planning Services and Curbside Click & Collect, says the company, while also adapting to the new operational needs and safety standards required.
IKEA Canada workers from across all stores, distribution centres, customer support centres, Design Studios and service offices employed on Aug. 31, 2021, and still employed at the pay-out date in January 2022, will be eligible for the appreciation gift. Employees will receive an amount based on their contracted hours.
The company has more than 7,000 co-workers across its Canadian stores, service offices, Design Studios and distribution centres nationally. It is still finalizing amounts that eligible co-workers will receive given varied contracted hours, says a spokesperson.
One of 32 markets operated by Ingka Group, IKEA Canada received a share of the total Ingka Group gift based on their respective proportion of total sales and wages. The gift is a one-time expression of appreciation, in addition to the existing rewards packages IKEA Canada co-workers enjoy including an annual performance-based bonus as well as a one-time pension contribution through the company's "Tack" loyalty program for co-workers employed for a minimum of five years.
Despite the bonus, IKEA Canada is having trouble finding staff, as seen in a Oct. 31 Twitter post by videographer Matt Dagley showing a sign at a Canadian restaurant.
It states: “It saddens us to do this but as a result of recruitment challenges, we have had to close the restaurant. We are doing everything we can to reopen your favourite Swedish restaurant.”
Earlier this year, IKEA Canada was listed among Canada's Greenest Employers for 2021, according to MediaCorp.
