Mondelez to hire 1,000 to meet increased demand due to COVID-19

Mondelez International said Monday it plans to hire an additional 1,000 people in the United States to meet increased demands on the food manufacturer in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Deerfield-based global snack maker, best known for its Oreo cookie brand, said in a statement that the additional employees will "ensure the uninterrupted functioning of our U.S. distribution and sales network in the coming months." The company added it is encouraging people who have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus to apply for the available positions.

"In this time of heightened need, we are working in close collaboration with customers and local communities to ensure that production lines remain operational, distribution networks continue to work efficiently, and U.S. consumers have access to foods on shelves," said Mondelez North America President Glen Walter.

The additional staffing was one of a number of moves the company is making to maintain productivity. In addition, the company will increase hourly salaries of manufacturing, distribution and sales employees by $2 per hour, and $125 per week for sales representatives, until May 2. The increase will benefit more than 10,000 Mondelez employees, the company said.

Employees affected by coronavirus will receive up to two additional weeks of paid leave at 100% pay, officials added.

"We are committed to providing our people with the support that they need as they ensure the continuity of the U.S. food supply," Walter said.

Officials also stress Mondelez remains committed to providing assistance with nonprofits like Feeding America and the American Red Cross, as part of company's $15 million community relief efforts.