OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. - A national craft store chain is following the trend of other retailers looking for help by raising pay for workers.

Hobby Lobby Stores has announced that it is raising its minimum full-time hourly wage to $18.50 effective January 1, 2022.

The retailer has raised its minimum wage twelve times over the last thirteen years, according to a news release.

“We have a long track record of taking care of our employees,” said Hobby Lobby founder and CEO, David Green. “In 1998, we made the decision to close our stores on Sundays, and at 8:00 p.m. the rest of the week, to provide employees time for rest, family, and worship.”

Hobby Lobby operates 956 retail stores, including locations including Boardman and Niles.