WITH HEALTH CARE COSTS on the rise and companies looking for ways to reduce their costs without burdening employees, healthy initiatives are taking root. And some employers are forcing the issue, according to an Associated Press story.
One method companies are using is price manipulation in their cafeterias. The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. increased the prices of fatty foods and used the extra money to subsidize healthy sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, according to the AP story. L.L. Bean increased the price for burgers and lowered prices on salads, which doubled salad bar purchases and cut burger purchases in half.
Other tactics AP says companies are using include the following:
- Union Pacific Corp. ordered its cafeteria operator to hire a full-time dietician, who was supposed to cut fat and calories by 10 percent in every item.
- Three times a day, L.L. Bean shuts down its manufacturing line for mandatory five-minute stretches.
- American Apparel stocks 80 bikes, locks and helmets for employees to use.
The goal is to create healthier employees, which will lessen the costs of health care on the back end. Healthier employees get sick less often and suffer fewer catastrophic diseases. Brokers who can submit ideas like these to clients and their employees will cement long-lasting relationships and help contribute to healthier workplaces and work forces.
