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| | CDW Computer Centers, Inc. |  | President/CEO:Mr. John A. Edwardson | | 2828 employees | | HQ: Vernon Hills, IL | | www.cdw.com |
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| At CDW Computer Centers, a computer distributor, a variety of innovative practices welcome the 2,800 employees while encouraging intimacy. The company provides bagels, pastries, fruits, and vegetables twice a week at all locations; Krispy Kreme donuts once a month; and during the summer, Dairy Queen ice cream once a week. Events outside of the workplace, such as the annual Coworker Appreciation at Six Flags Great America, a summer picnic, and an annual holiday party, give employees and their families an opportunity to socialize with each other while participating in informal and social events. These food breaks and activities give employees a chance to set work aside and share who they are with each other. |
| Other practices build community. When the company's sales goal is reached, Old Timers - all employees with three years tenure - receive a four-day, three-night vacation, including airfare and hotel, anywhere in the continental United States for themselves and their immediate family. This benefit creates a sense of common purpose and teamwork. |
| The company uses successes to build camaraderie in other ways as well. When CDW had its first $1 billion quarter, for instance, the CEO sent a note out thanking employees and asking them to celebrate with a "Taste of Chicago" lunch, replete with local favorites, such as Chicago-style deep dish pizza, Chicago dogs, and Eli's cheesecake. |
