Amazon, the $2.73 trillion technology company, is investing $230 million in higher pay and expanded benefits for more than 100,000 U.S. Whole Foods employees. Starting September 28, hourly workers will receive raises that lift average store wages above $21 an hour, while new benefits will raise average total compensation to around $29 an hour. Amazon said the package represents one of its most significant investments in U.S. Whole Foods workers. The changes include expanded health coverage, family-building benefits and improved access for part-time employees. From January 1, 2027, staff will be able to choose comprehensive health plans starting at $5 a week, with primary and behavioral health care available for a $5 copay. About 20,000 employees working at least 20 hours weekly will receive dental, vision and basic life insurance coverage. Amazon said its health plans generally have lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, and Whole Foods plans will add fertility and specialty-care benefits. Education support will also expand through Amazon's Career Choice program, which prepays tuition for college, skills training and certifications and has been used by more than 300,000 Amazon workers since 2012. Every hourly Whole Foods worker will also receive an Amazon Prime membership valued at $139 annually. The company is continuing to develop career paths through apprenticeships launched in 2023, with more than 2,150 employees trained in fishmongering, meat butchery, bakery decorating and pizza making. Up to 300 employees join the upskilling program each quarter, with training lasting 12 to 13 weeks for pizza making and six to 12 months for meat butchery. Amazon executives said the programs can provide higher wages and a route to advancement within the company.