Workforce

Noodles is giving workers paid time off to vote

The chain joins several others in encouraging employees to vote in the upcoming presidential election.
Noodles vote
Photograph: Shutterstock

Noodles & Co. announced Tuesday that its workers will get one hour of paid time off to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

The Broomfield, Colo.-based fast-casual chain has also created an online library for employees with resources including how to register to vote, find polling places and other information for the Nov. 3 election.

"We believe that voting is a right and a privilege — we encourage all team members to take the time and vote," said Dave Boennighausen, chief executive officer of Noodles & Company. "Voting is more than just a means to electing a candidate; it's about supporting policies and initiatives that are important to you, as well as choosing the right people to represent you and your interests. We are pleased to offer these resources in time for our team members to register to vote nationwide in the upcoming election."

Noodles joins several other restaurants that have already announced plans to give workers time off to vote, including Starbucks, &pizza and the Milk Bar bakery chain.

Paid time off to vote is part of the LifeAtNoodles employee benefits package at the chain. Other benefits include $10,000 for adoption assistance, paid paternity leave, six weeks of paid maternity leave and instant pay.

The company said it plans to announce more additions to its benefit package in coming weeks.

"We are committed to investing in our team members by implementing benefits and opportunities that will support an inclusive and diverse environment where team members can thrive," Boennighausen said. "Inclusion begins when everyone's voice is heard, and one of the most impactful ways we can speak up is with our vote."

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