Amazon invests $230M in Whole Foods workers

The tech giant is pouring $230 million into higher pay and expanded benefits for over 100,000 U.S. Whole Foods employees, starting September 28.

Hourly pay jumps to $21 per hour

Starting September 28, Whole Foods hourly workers will see their average store wage rise to more than $21 an hour, marking one of the most significant investments in U.S. workers since Amazon acquired the chain in 2017.

Total compensation reaches $29 hourly

With expanded health coverage and family-building benefits included, the average total compensation for Whole Foods workers will reach around $29 per hour, with the total value of benefits rising more than 75%.

Healthcare overhaul starts January 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, Whole Foods staff will access comprehensive health plans for $5 weekly, with $5 copays for primary and behavioral care. Around 20,000 part-time workers will gain dental, vision, and life insurance.

College tuition and Prime membership included

Amazon's Career Choice program will prepay tuition for college, skills training, and certifications starting next year. Every hourly worker also gets an Amazon Prime membership valued at $139 annually.

Apprenticeships train 2,150 in artisan skills

Since launching in 2023, Whole Foods apprenticeships have trained over 2,150 workers in fishmongering, butchery, bakery decorating, and pizza making. Programs range from 12 weeks to 12 months and boost employee wages.

“This is more than training, it's a career accelerator.”