Advertisement

Wellness Support for a Holly Jolly Holiday Workforce

nicoletaionescu-stock.Adobe.com

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for the workforce, especially those on the frontlines. With extended hours, increased customer demand and unpredictable schedules, focusing on their own wellbeing can be challenging for employees. The physical and mental toll of long shifts and high stress can affect health, making wellness support from their employers crucial.

However, many traditional wellness programs are designed for in-office environments and don’t meet the high-stress realities of work during the holidays, especially in fast-paced environments like retail. The diverse needs of retail employees — with some seeking mental health support and stress management and others needing help with physical strain — can make it difficult to find a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, a personalized approach is needed to connect each employee with the right wellness resources.

Tailored wellbeing programs are becoming an essential investment for employers. Afterall, when employers invest in wellness initiatives, everyone wins. Employees feel healthier, happier and more supported, which boosts morale and productivity. In return, businesses experience lower turnover, fewer call-outs and improved customer service. A comprehensive, individualized wellbeing strategy not only supports employees but also builds a resilient workforce that drives success, especially during peak seasons like the holidays.

Wellness Resources Anytime, Anywhere

During the chaos of the holiday season, employees need wellness solutions that are easily accessible, engaging and adaptable to their unpredictable routines. Traditional wellness programs that require employees to be in one specific place at a set time no longer work. Mobile apps are a game-changer, offering workers the flexibility to access wellness tools on their own terms — whether during a break, on a commute or at home after a shift. Platforms like Grokker provide everything from fitness classes and mindfulness exercises to nutritional guidance, helping workers maintain balance even in the busy holiday season.

Advertisement

This approach not only provides wellness tools but also serves as an investment in a stronger, more productive workforce. Retailers that embrace mobile wellness solutions help employees take care of themselves, fostering a team that can meet seasonal demands with greater efficiency and resilience.

Meeting the Needs of a Diverse Workforce

To truly support employees, wellness programs must be personalized. Whether it’s addressing varying fitness levels, dietary restrictions or the unique stressors of working long hours during the holidays, customized plans are essential. Assessment tools can help employers create tailored wellness plans that are relevant and effective.

A diverse content library — offering a mix of fitness and nutritional tips — ensures that employees of all ages and abilities can find something that works for them. Younger workers may enjoy high-intensity workouts and gamified challenges, while older employees may prefer low-impact exercises and stress reduction techniques. For workers with disabilities, ensuring the content is inclusive and accessible also is key.

The availability of mental health resources is equally important. In stressful, demanding environments, prioritizing mental health helps boost emotional resilience and helps employees perform their best. Mentally supported workers stay engaged, maintain positivity and contribute to a productive environment. Employers who focus on mental health foster long-term employee satisfaction and retention, benefiting both workers and the business.

Grokker’s Impact on CVS Health

At Grokker we have helped CVS Health — one of the largest employers in the U.S. — boost employee engagement and wellness, even during the high-stress holiday season. With over 293,000 U.S.-based employees, CVS saw a 15% registration rate and a 60% active member rate within just seven months of implementing Grokker. The platform’s flexibility and accessibility allowed employees to manage stress and improve wellbeing, especially for those who couldn’t always be in front of a computer.

The success of CVS Health highlights the effectiveness of tailored wellness programs in supporting employees through the demands of the holiday season and beyond.

Beyond the Holiday Rush

Retailers that invest in wellness programs during the holidays aren’t just solving short-term challenges — they’re building the foundation for long-term success. By offering solutions that support both the physical and mental health of employees, businesses foster a healthier, more engaged workforce. When employees feel valued and supported — particularly during the high-pressure holiday season — it leads to improved retention, higher customer satisfaction and increased productivity. It’s a win for employees, businesses and customers alike.


Arthur Lane is Head of Marketing at Grokker, an engagement platform focused on holistic employee well-being. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and product development, Lane has held leadership roles at companies including Accolade, 2nd.MD, Onlife Health, Emdeon and Verizon Wireless. His expertise spans inclusive family benefits, mobile health solutions and strategic marketing across various sectors.

Feature Your Byline

Submit an Executive ViewPoints.

Featured Event

Join the Retail Trendcaster Webinar Series to uncover key 2025 retail trends, from AI and personalization to social commerce. Gain expert insights, data-driven predictions, and actionable takeaways to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

Advertisement

Access The Media Kit

Interests:

Access Our Editorial Calendar




If you are downloading this on behalf of a client, please provide the company name and website information below: