On November 3rd, White Castle restaurants across the US will be closed from 7am until 11am so that all employees have ample time to go and cast their ballots for the 2020 presidential election. Those who are set to work the morning shift will also receive paid time off, ensuring that the mandatory closure will not cut employee wages.
White Castle CEO and President Lisa Ingram spoke to the family owned business' decision, stating "We have decided to start a new tradition. Starting this year and going forward, White Castle will give team members time to exercise their right to vote in presidential elections. We believe voting is a right of responsible citizenship, and we want all our team members to have that opportunity."
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Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Election Day Closures
- More companies may follow White Castle's lead in closing on Election Day to encourage voter turnout among employees.
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- This move by White Castle exemplifies a growing trend of companies showing social responsibility and taking action on political issues important to their employees and customers.
- Paid Time Off Policies
- White Castle's decision to give employees paid time off for voting may encourage other companies to implement similar policies, potentially leading to better voter turnout overall.
Where This Applies
- Quick Service Restaurants
- Other QSRs may see the benefits of closing on Election Day for increased employee morale and positive brand image.
- Retail
- Retailers may also explore the option of closing on Election Day to allow for employee participation in the democratic process.
- Employment Law
- The trend of giving employees paid time off for voting may trigger discussions of new legislation around election day policies in the workplace.
