All remaining associates will see the increase in this week's paychecks. "We've been continuously focused on cultivating the best associate experience in retail, with ongoing investment in associate wages, benefits, bonuses, job tools, and career development opportunities," wrote Ted Decker, President and CEO, in an email to employees. CHECK OUT: Heinz Looks for Man Who Survived a Month at Sea Eating Only Ketchup So They Can Buy Him a Boat "We've also enhanced training and career development opportunities for our associates." "Excellent customer service is one of our core values—and we view our investment in the knowledgeable and experienced associates who provide that excellent customer service as critical to our success." The raises followed a similar company move near the end of 2020—the first year of the pandemic—that saw the U.S. hardware giant invest another $1 billion in its employees. Better wages are aimed at helping The Home Depot attract and retain "the best talent" available.