Kroger is the largest supermarket chain in the U.S.; therefore, it’s one of the biggest employers with about 465,000 associates.
If you are looking to work at any Kroger store, you need to know the termination policy and how easy it is to get fired. So, how does Kroger handle these matters? Here’s what I discovered!
What is Kroger’s Termination Policy In 2024?
Kroger’s termination policy states that employees can be fired within the first 90 days or during the probationary period as of 2024. However, employees have to receive three write-ups after this period to get terminated. Furthermore, the staff gets terminated for stealing merchandise, money from the till, company time, and for not showing up to work.
For more information about the termination process at Kroger and the common reasons why employees get fired, read on!
What Reasons Will Result In Termination At Kroger?
Kroger’s reasons for termination vary greatly; therefore, you need to know them to avoid losing your job.
According to a former employee, you can get fired for anything within the first 90 days of employment.
However, you have to be written up three times after this period. Furthermore, after the three write-ups, Kroger will fire you.
Additionally, employees can be fired from Kroger for the following reasons.
1. Not Showing Up To Work
You can get fired after three write-ups if you don’t show up to work, however, this differs in some stores because some employees lose their jobs after not showing up 10 times.
In addition, this includes job abandonment when employees repeatedly take time off without a valid excuse.
2. Stealing
Employees get terminated at Kroger for stealing money from the till, stealing company time, or taking merchandise.
3. Inappropriate Sales
If you sell age-restricted items to underage individuals, you might get terminated. These items include tobacco, liquor, and age-restricted medicine.
4. Physical Assault
Employees can also be fired for engaging in physical assault. This is dangerous for the company’s employees and customers; therefore, it’s one of the quickest ways to lose your job.
5. Drug and Substance Abuse
If you test positive for drug use while employed, Kroger will terminate you to protect its customers. After you lose your job, you might not be able to get it back.
6. Insubordination
You can also get fired for insubordination; if you are constantly having issues with your manager, this can become a problem and lead to termination.
7. Company Restructures
On some occasions, employees have been fired because the company is going through a restructuring.
Furthermore, Kroger has had cases of firings, transfers, and demotions as part of the restructuring process.
This affects employees at different levels of management, from senior managers to entry-level cashiers.
Does Kroger Have A Probationary Period?
According to former employees, Kroger’s employee handbook is unclear on the probation period.
Therefore, employees get 30, 60, or 90 days depending on their job performance and the specific department.
During this probationary period, the employee is monitored based on performance and work attendance.
Additionally, failure to meet Kroger’s standards during this period can result in termination.
Furthermore, Kroger uses this period to observe any behaviors and issues with your work ethic that can interfere with your ability to deliver on your job.
You can be terminated immediately during this period since you are not confirmed as an official employee.
However, if you go through the probationary period with no issues, your job won’t be at high risk until you hit three strikes or violate the set rules.
Do Terminated Kroger Employees Receive Severance Packages?
According to the company policy, Kroger pays eligible employees the severance benefits, which are usually paid in one lump sum payment.
This package should be processed within two weeks following the employee’s termination.
However, if an employee accepts severance pay, they are not eligible for a rehire at Kroger.
Therefore, if you are planning to re-apply for a job at Kroger in the future, it’s advisable to avoid taking the severance pay.
Furthermore, if you are planning to shift to another organization or retailer, you can accept this package.
Can You Get Rehired After Termination At Kroger?
If Kroger has fired you, you might get a second chance to apply for a job again after a certain period has lapsed. However, this varies depending on your reason for termination.
According to current and former Kroger employees, an ex-employee who has been terminated can come back and reapply for a job at the retailer.
For instance, an employee who was fired for violating a coupon policy can wait for 90 days before reapplying.
However, others suggest that former employees have to wait for six months before trying again.
In addition, you’ll get rehired at the discretion of the store manager; therefore, you need to keep in mind that you might not get your job back on some occasions.
If you are looking to learn more, you can also read our posts on Kroger’s rehire policy, how to quit Kroger, and Kroger’s bereavement policy.
Conclusion
Kroger’s termination policy states that employees can be fired within the first 90 days or during their probationary period. However, employees have to receive three write-ups after this period to get terminated.
The staff gets terminated at Kroger for stealing merchandise, money from the till, and company time. You can also be fired for not showing up to work or for physical assault. Additionally, employees can be fired when the retailer is restructuring and downsizing operations.
