Tyson Foods, a leading name in the food industry, is proactively tackling transportation barriers faced by its team members. Recognizing that reliable and affordable transportation is crucial for its workforce, particularly in rural areas, Tyson Foods has partnered with Commute with Enterprise to implement effective transportation solutions. This initiative, known as Tyson Transportation, is designed to enhance employee experience, improve job accessibility, and contribute to a more sustainable commute.
Commute with Enterprise: A Cornerstone of Tyson Transportation
The collaboration between Tyson Foods and Commute with Enterprise has established a robust ride-share program that provides a low-cost commuting option for Tyson team members. Launched last year, this program has rapidly expanded to encompass 26 Tyson Foods facilities. Currently, it supports over 1,000 employees and has collectively saved an estimated 4 million commuter miles, demonstrating its significant impact.
The program’s success lies in its tailored approach. Enterprise collaborates closely with each Tyson Foods location to develop a customized vanpooling plan. This involves strategically grouping employees who live in proximity and work similar shifts, optimizing vehicle occupancy and commute routes. Commute with Enterprise provides each vanpool group with a modern and reliable vehicle, be it a minivan, SUV, or passenger van, along with comprehensive maintenance and insurance coverage. Participants share driving responsibilities, fostering a sense of community and shared ownership.
The financial benefits for participating employees are substantial. By sharing the rental costs and fuel expenses, individual commuting costs are significantly reduced. On average, participation in the Tyson Transportation program costs between just $15 and $25 per week, a fraction of the expense of individual car ownership and operation.
Hazel Tibbs, a Tyson team member in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, attests to the program’s positive impact on her daily life. “Before the ride-share program, my drive… was about 54 miles, and I spent most of my evenings in the car,” she explained. “Now I have more time to do things for myself and exhale from life while only spending $25 per week.” This testimonial underscores how Tyson Transportation not only addresses financial burdens but also improves work-life balance for employees.
Beyond Ride-Sharing: Expanding Tyson Transportation Initiatives
While the Commute with Enterprise partnership forms a significant part of Tyson Transportation, Tyson Foods is exploring and implementing other innovative solutions to further support its workforce. The facility in Eagle Mountain, Utah, for example, has pioneered a car purchasing assistance program. This initiative provides eligible team members with financial aid in the form of three $500 installments, totaling $1,500, to facilitate the purchase of reliable personal transportation. This direct financial support is paid directly to dealerships, ensuring the funds are used for their intended purpose. This program is available to full-time, part-time, hourly, management support, and even temporary team members, demonstrating broad accessibility.
These diverse transportation programs are integral to Tyson Foods’ overarching commitment to becoming the most desirable employer in the protein industry. The company has made substantial investments exceeding $500 million in wage increases and bonuses for frontline workers in the past year alone. Furthermore, Tyson Foods is actively piloting subsidized and on-site childcare facilities and establishing near-site health centers to cater to the holistic needs of its employees. Beyond these benefits, Tyson Foods provides crucial legal and citizenship support for immigrant team members and offers free education assistance to all U.S. team members, showcasing a comprehensive approach to employee well-being. The company is also increasingly adopting more flexible work schedules in its production facilities, recognizing the diverse needs of its workforce.
Tyson Foods: Driving Employee Well-being Through Transportation and Beyond
Tyson Transportation reflects Tyson Foods’ deep understanding of the challenges its workforce faces and its dedication to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. By proactively addressing transportation barriers, Tyson Foods is not only enhancing job accessibility and reducing financial strain for its employees but also reinforcing its position as a forward-thinking and employee-centric organization. These transportation solutions are a testament to Tyson Foods’ broader strategy of investing in its team members, recognizing that their well-being is intrinsically linked to the company’s success.
To explore career opportunities at Tyson Foods and learn more about their commitment to employee support, visit www.tysonfoods.com/careers.
About Tyson Foods, Inc.
Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) is a global food company and a recognized leader in protein. Founded in 1935, Tyson Foods boasts a wide array of well-known brands, including Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, and Hillshire Farm®. Committed to innovation and sustainability, Tyson Foods strives to produce food responsibly, meeting the evolving needs of a global population. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, Tyson Foods employs approximately 137,000 team members. Guided by its core values, Tyson Foods is dedicated to ethical operations, creating value for stakeholders, and serving as a responsible steward of resources. For more information, visit www.tysonfoods.com.
About Enterprise Holdings
Enterprise Holdings, Inc., a privately held company owned by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Mo., is a leading mobility provider. Operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, and Alamo Rent A Car brands, Enterprise Holdings manages a vast fleet of over 1.8 million vehicles across a global network spanning over 90 countries and territories. Offering a comprehensive suite of transportation services, including car rental, car sharing, and fleet management, Enterprise Holdings is committed to simplifying and enhancing travel experiences for customers worldwide.
