SYDNEY, AAP – Flight Centre is trying to retain staff amid the pandemic by offering shares if workers stay until the end of next year.

The global travel agency said a worker will receive the right to 250 shares if they remain to December 31, 2022.

Company leaders expect about 7,500 workers will take up the offer and receive about 1.9 million shares.

These shares would be worth about $30 million, based on Friday’s share price.

Many workers in the industry have lost their jobs or turned to other work as COVID-19 rules prevent long distance travel.

 

Top Australian Brokers

 

Flight Centre managing director Graham Turner said the share offer was a retention program encouraging people to continue their careers at the company.

Board members and executives are ineligible.

Shares were up 0.47 per cent to $15.11 at 1148 AEST.