Staffing

Whataburger dishes out $90M in employee bonuses

In 2020, Whataburger rolled out its first food truck

March 31, 2021

Texas-based Whataburger has awarded more than $90 million in bonuses to its employees in thanks for their service during the pandemic and severe winter weather across its 10-state footprint. Employees also received "Extra Mile" bonuses, emergency pay and a doubling of their 401(k) plan matching for 2020, Whataburger CEO Ed Nelson said in a company press release.

"The past year reshaped how we live, work and play, with the restaurant and hospitality industry being heavily impacted by the pandemic and this year's crippling winter storms. We are so humbled and grateful for the loyalty of our customers during this time," he said. "And we wanted to help ensure that our family members and their families were taken care of and thank them for continuing to go the extra mile to serve our guests with great Pride, Care and Love. Our Family Members and guests are the foundation of our success, and we are grateful for both."

As Whataburger prepares for the largest growth phase in its 70+ year history, the company is elevating general managers at its restaurants to "operating partners," Nelson said.

"Operating Partners are business leaders who run multimillion-dollar restaurants, take care of their teams, and serve as the face of Whataburger in their communities," he said. "They are the hearts and souls of our brand."

The company's enhanced compensation plan gives operating partners the opportunity to bring home six figures annually, including bonus potential of up to 150% of their target incentive.

"From internally promoting our very own brilliant minds to attracting ambitious outside talent, we are committed to providing competitive incentives and great career opportunities in the communities we serve," SVP of HR and Brand Culture, Pam Nemec, said in the release. "This generation of restaurant leaders is bringing Whataburger goodness to communities across the U.S. while embracing self empowerment to build and tailor their own leadership paths."

Headquartered in San Antonio, Whataburger has nearly 900 units and sales of more than $2.5 billion annually. It employs 46,000 workers.