How one global manufacturer calibrates its wellness programs for a far-flung workforce

Brunswick Corporation has remade itself frequently over its 176-year history. It’s been known for pool tables, bowling, piano cases, record players, defense products, medical equipment, fitness machines and more. In the last 60 years, Brunswick has been focused on boating, and now is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of recreational boats and marine products, with more than 13,000 employees and $4.1 billion in revenue.

Throughout that long and diverse history, the company has always had a diverse workforce, with people located in offices and factories in 24 countries and operating in 170 markets. It’s fitting, then, that such a sprawling and fast-changing company has a similarly fast-changing employee-wellness program too.

“When we’re thinking about wellness or wellbeing programs, it’s something we’re always keeping in mind,” says Melanie Jamerson, director of compensation and benefits at Brunswick. “It’s definitely not one-size-fits-all. Different kinds of communications or programs will resonate with people differently just based on what they’re doing on a day-to-day basis.”

Brunswick Group Facts