Tesco Stores ČR, a. s. is a retail chain focusing on food and non-food products. It is one of the leading retailers in the Czech market. In addition to three hypermarkets, Tesco Extra operates small hypermarkets, supermarkets, and Express stores. There are also Tesco petrol stations at selected hypermarkets. It currently operates over 200 stores and with nearly 11,000 employees is one of the largest private employers in the Czech Republic.

The company cares as much about the needs and wishes of its customers as it does about the environment, the society of which it is a part, and the city in which it operates. They employ representatives of different mindsets, attitudes, and ways of working in its facilities, offices, and distribution centers. Tesco Stores ČR gives everyone the same opportunities. They offer a flexible and modern working environment with an informal and friendly culture that allows one to be himself and good at what he does. They care about the satisfaction and loyalty of their customers and colleagues. They strive to be the best employer among retail chains.

 Promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all is the goal of the company. They make a significant contribution to the communities in which they operate, both by directly providing decent jobs and by promoting employment through their supply chain.

It is important to them that different age groups continue to be represented within the total number of colleagues, while also offering a range of employment support programs. During the pandemic, age proved to be an important aspect in relation to the virus. It was, therefore, necessary to provide certain groups of staff with the necessary support to ensure their maximum safety. The most vulnerable groups, i.e. colleagues over 65, were allowed to take paid leave during the pandemic. This allowed them to remain in the safety of their homes without fear of possible financial repercussions.

Responses from senior staff indicated that they were reluctant to use this benefit at first during the pandemic because they wanted to be helpful in the shop during the situation. However, they very much appreciated the opportunity offered by the employer that they could eventually stay at home safely.

The company strives to create an inclusive work environment based on a culture of diversity where every idea is welcome.  A culture that understands the individuality of colleagues and creates a sense of belonging and one team by valuing the diversity of their backgrounds, personalities, and preferences. Moreover, a culture of inclusion is an integral part of the brand, embedded in the company’s values – treat others as we want them to treat us. They support the publication of similar messages, along with measures of how they approach different aspects of diversity issues, as they believe this will lead to a more equal modern society.

A company’s approach to diversity can inspire others to take concrete steps in creating a diverse work environment and reducing any disparities. It is important to ensure that everyone feels safe in the workplace and knows that they really matter. The impact can then extend far beyond the boundaries of the company in question.

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