Nationwide MutualInsurance Co., the third-largest seller of commercial carcoverage in the U.S., has announced it will raise its minimumwage to $15 per hour over the next nine months. Approximately 900current employees across 25 locations for jobs in call centers,field and staff office positions will be impacted, according to thecompany's press release.

“Nationwide's core values are all about people," said Gale King, chief administrative officer forNationwide. "This pay rate increase aligns with our values andreflects a change that is above the current market practice forcertain roles. We believe increasing our base compensation levelfor these entry level jobs is the right thing to do and is yetanother way we are maintaining our commitment to doing what's rightfor our associates.”

Nationwide indicated that company leaders are committed toensuring a highly engaged and productive workforce because theyrecognize that the company’s ability to provide customer service isdriven by its employees.

Nationwide said it has hundreds of open jobs across the country for positions incustomer service, claims and sales.