Ingles Announces New Bonus Payment for Hourly Workers

Ingles Markets Inc. said it was issuing a second round of bonus pay to workers who served during the COVID pandemic.

The Asheville, N.C.-based food retailer said the payment of $300 to full-time employees and $150 to part-timers represents a $5 million investment. Workers employed as of April 24 are to receive the new bonus payment at the end of July.

Ingles announced a similar bonus April 1, shortly after the pandemic was declared a national emergency.

“We continue to meet the daily challenge of providing a safe and clean environment for our customers and associates,” Robert P. Ingle II, chairman of Ingles’ board, said in a statement. “Our associates have made a difference during this unprecedented time. We are incredibly proud of them and wish to show appreciation for their efforts.”

Ingles Markets operates 197 stores in six southeastern states. In financial results for its fiscal second quarter announced last month, the retailer said same-store sales soared by 17.5% and overall revenues by 14% in the period, which ended March 28.