Dollarama employees are getting one-time Christmas bonuses in recognition of their efforts during the pandemic.

All of the company’s roughly 26,000 workers who were employed as of Dec. 9 will get the so-called “gratitude” payments on their next paycheque. The bonuses range from $300 for full-time staff and $200 for part-timers.

“I wish to recognize our people for their efforts and dedication as the pandemic has become our new reality and with COVID-19 safety measures now part of our everyday operating procedures,” said Dollarama president and CEO Neil Rossy.

At the same time, Dollarama Inc. raised its dividend and reported a higher third-quarter profit that exceded the expectations of many analysts.

Dollarama had been criticized over the summer for not taking stronger health precautions and for not extending a pay raise it offered employees in the early weeks of the pandemic.