In declaring the importance of the frontline employees, Home Depot has backed its words with definitive action. Though the company is coping with the impact of the recession along with other retailers, it had chosen to maintain the 401(k) match for employees. Unlike many of its competitors, Home Depot is continuing to grant merit increases and has paid record employee bonuses. "Other companies are fighting not to lay people off," says Shaw. "We want to stay focused on enhancing Home Depot's reputation as a good place to work."