In August 2023, The Guardian reported that a Kroger distribution centre employee died while at work in Memphis amid hot working conditions. According to the article, the worker’s death came after his union had been asking the company to instigate heat mitigation measures, including more breaks, cooler temperatures and drinks other than just water.

The worker allegedly worked in the salvage department, a part of the facility that does not have air conditioning. He was allegedly ‘dripping with sweat’ and ‘asking for water’ as he died. An investigation has been opened into the worker’s death.

The Guardian article goes on to highlight how unions across the United States are demanding cooler working conditions in the context of record-breaking temperatures, but lobbyists across agricultural and construction industries are ‘working to prevent’ heat protection laws from going into effect.

The Business and Human Rights Resource Centre asked Kroger to:

a) Respond to the report and allegations of hot working conditions;

b) Disclose the measures Kroger is taking to protect workers from extreme heat; and,

c) Disclose steps taken to compensate the worker’s family for his death.

Kroger response can be read in full below.