Popular Convenience Store Pulls Controversial 'Smile Policy' Following Complaints
Sheetz has amended a handbook policy that's gotten backlash from employees.
Sheetz has amended a handbook policy that's been stirring up some controversy in recent days.
The popular convenience store and gas station, headquartered in Pennsylvania, has pulled what's been referred to as a "smile policy," which barred employees with visible teeth problems from getting hired.
The handbook reportedly stated that applicants with "obvious missing, broken, or badly discolored teeth (unrelated to a disability) are not qualified for employment with Sheetz," per Business Insider.
Several employees spoke out about the policy, including a former employee from North Carolina, who called it "disgusting" and "kind of classist," particularly when the "majority of people you're employing are going to be lower-income."
The policy in the handbook reportedly stated that any dental issues needed to be resolved within 90 days, adding, "Sheetz believes that an employee's smile during interactions with customers and coworkers is critical to creating the sense of hospitality in our stores that we strive for."
Rose Counts, an employee in Circleville, Ohio, opened up about her experience to CBS News, stating that when she was hired, the company was aware that she needed time off to get her teeth repaired after they were damaged in a domestic violence incident with an ex decades ago.
"I was told, 'no problem,' that they prided themselves in making sure their employees are healthy," she explained. But when the time came to get the surgery, she was asked to fill out a significant amount of paperwork for human resources.
She also recalled the manager stating that he should've "never hired" her in the first place.
"I felt very defeated after the conversation," she added, explaining that she quit shortly after.
Following a company review last month, Sheetz decided to permanently abolish the "smile policy," according to a statement released to CBS News.
"As a family-owned and operated company, nothing is more important than creating an environment that is inclusive and supportive of all of our employees," the statement read.
"Recently through employee feedback, we have learned that the smile policy is not aligned with these values from their perspective. We agree. Effective immediately, this policy is discontinued. We are committed to ensuring our policies moving forward are equitable and celebrate the diverse experiences, individual identities, and unique perspectives of our employees," it continued.
Counts said she was offered her job back at the company with the promise of fully paid dental work, but she politely turned it down.
