CLAYSBURG - It's not every day you to go work and get a free back massage.
"I loved it, I could do it all day long. It was awesome, they really do take care of us," Sheetz warehouse employee Beth White of Altoona said.
The free back massages were part of Subaru of America's Work, Play, Love Tour on Monday at the Sheetz Distribution Center.
The program was created to reward companies as among the best places to work.
"Subaru is visiting companies that are recognized for having a positive work-life balance," said Todd Lawrence, Subaru promotions and sponsorships manager. "We are trying to bring a little bit of fun to the workplace so they can break away from their hard work and have some fun and exercise."
Sheetz was selected for the Work, Play, Love Tour because they encourage their employees to get outside and play and take breaks, said Erin Barnes, project manager for Subaru.
"This gives them a break from the work day; it is like they are getting a recess to have fun," Barnes said. "We are encouraging people to get outside and get some fresh air. Studies have shown if you get outside and take a break it increases your productivity."
About 1,100 employees from the Sheetz Distribution Center and Sheetz Bros. Kitchen were given an hour of their work day to participate in the event, which was forced indoors because of the cold, rainy weather.
"The purpose of this event is to celebrate with our employees for being selected. They have helped us to be named one of the best places to work in four states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and North Carolina," said Earl Springer, Sheetz manager of employee programs. "Only two other businesses in Pennsylvania have been on the best places to work list for ten straight years. We are very proud of that."
Employees could enjoy a free massage, register to win a personal day off and other prizes, learn more about the new Sheetz Shwellness Center, scheduled to be completed in November, and enjoy food from the Sheetz Ready to Eat healthy menu.
Matt Stuckey, president of Stuckey Subaru, Hollidaysburg, was on hand to provide details about a special discount on new Subarus for Sheetz employees.
"The discount depends on the model," Stuckey said. "We are trying to reward our present customers and are seeking new customers; we are happy to tag along. It is a great way to meet new people."
