Overstock’s Holistic Family Support Package: On-Site Childcare, Clinic, and More

Online retailer Overstock.com implemented a multifaceted family support program at its Utah headquarters, combining on-site childcare, an on-site medical clinic, flexible scheduling, and even a travel stipend for caregivers.

The problem that led to the creation of Overstock's on-site childcare center was a significant and multifaceted struggle for employees, particularly working parents, to balance demanding careers with their family lives. Despite the company's family-friendly culture, employees faced several recurring hurdles. A key issue was the logistical challenge of having a sick child, as a simple fever could cost a parent a large portion of their workday due to separate trips to the daycare and a doctor. The company’s workforce, composed of both hourly and salaried staff, also had varying and often compressed schedules that were incompatible with traditional 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. childcare. This problem was further compounded by the demands of business travel, which often forced new mothers to choose between career opportunities and caregiving responsibilities. Acknowledging these issues, Overstock’s leadership decided to create a more comprehensive solution that would truly allow their employees to thrive.

Overstock launched several family-friendly initiatives to support employees. In 2017, it opened an on-site childcare center at its Peace Coliseum campus, serving about 80 children at subsidized rates. Located just steps from offices, it offers convenience for working parents. A year later, Overstock added an on-site health clinic, staffed by a nurse practitioner who treats minor illnesses, performs check-ups, and fills common prescriptions—saving time and stress for parents. The company also introduced a “caregiver travel” policy: if an employee with an infant under two travels for work, Overstock covers a caregiver’s flight. Additionally, employees can opt for a 9/80 schedule, working nine longer days to get every other Friday off. These benefits come at minimal cost—daycare is partly fee-funded, the clinic reduces healthcare claims, and the travel perk is rarely used but builds loyalty. As one of the company’s executives noted, these resources make employees feel valued and deliver strong returns through improved retention and productivity.

~12-18 months