ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Belle Tire Distributors Inc. is incentivizing employees who get the COVID-19 vaccination, awarding them $25 per vaccine visit.
Allen Park-based Belle Tire has more than 2,300 employees at 127 locations in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. The company emphasized that it is not mandating employees to get the vaccine.
Don Barnes III, president of family-owned Belle Tire, commended his employees who "have been working in our stores throughout this pandemic to help our customers keep their tires in good condition and vehicles on the road so that they could get the food, medication, supplies and medical treatment they need. That's why we want to encourage all of our employees to get vaccinated and protect themselves."
The company said employees may choose where to get immunized based on the guidelines in their states and communities, as well as vaccine availability. Employees will need to show their vaccination card to managers in order to receive the incentive.
"For nearly a century, Belle Tire has been committed to doing what's right for our employees, their families and our customers," Mr. Barnes said.
"By providing employees with a monetary incentive for each vaccine visit, we are ensuring they don't have to choose between earning a living and getting this vital vaccine. It's just one more way for us to take care of our team."
As part of its safety procedures to protect customers and employees in the wake of the pandemic, the company launched a 100% contact-free customer experience, which includes stay-in-your-vehicle service and touch-free transactions.