Krystal launches Square Up Scholarship program for employees

"We're delighted to launch this scholarship program in support of the 8,000-strong Krystal family," Klump said. "Our people are our brand. Their passion for our customers and their devotion to Krystal's iconic legacy set us apart in the industry. We want to reward their dedication and loyalty with our own."

The Square Up Scholarship program is designed to support, promote and encourage the educational pursuits and goals of individual Krystal employees, including both full and part time workers at company-owned and franchise restaurants. Recipients will be selected through an application process that evaluates academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, brand tenure, unusual family and personal circumstances, and financial need. Eligible applicants must be in good standing and have a six-month employment tenure with the company.

The $2,500 individual awards may be used toward four-year or two-year degrees, trade degrees or technical certifications from accredited learning institutions. Krystal plans to award up to 20 scholarships in its initial rollout and even more scholarships going forward to recipients who enroll in at least one class per semester. The scholarship fund will grow over time with contributions from employees, franchisees, partners and community support.

"We have employees who have been with the company for decades, and their leadership and institutional knowledge are invaluable," said Paul Macaluso, Krystal CEO. "But employee retention is an industry-wide challenge. These scholarships are an investment in our people. We want to do everything we can to attract good workers in our restaurants and support their career aspirations so they can support themselves and their families."

The Square Up Scholarship application window will open in August. Partnering with Scholarship America, Krystal will announce Square Up Scholarship recipients in November for the 2019 spring term.

About The Krystal Company
Founded in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1932, The Krystal Company is the original quick-service restaurant chain in the South. Its hamburgers are still served fresh and hot off the grill on the iconic square bun at more than 360 restaurants in 11 states. Krystal's Atlanta-based Restaurant Support Center serves a team of 6,000 employees. For more information, visit krystal.com.

Media Contact: 
Laura Mansfield
APR, The Tombras Group
+1 (865) 599.9968
[email protected]

SOURCE The Krystal Company