Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY (Notes)

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TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY (Notes)
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2018
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY
TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY
In the first quarter of 2018, we launched the first phase of a multi-year, enterprise-wide transformation strategy that is expected to impact our organization. Over the course of the next few years additional phases will be implemented. The program includes investments impacting global direct and indirect operating costs, as well as changes in processes and technology.
As part of this multi-phased transformation strategy, in April 2018, we announced that a select group of non-operations, retirement-eligible U.S. management employees were informed of their eligibility for participation in a special Voluntary Retirement Plan (VRP). Under the VRP, eligible employees were offered a financial buyout to retire. Those who have elected to participate in the voluntary retirement program will separate in phases to maintain an orderly transition. The special VRP offer does not change the design, or eligibility for, UPS retirement plans. This initiative will reduce headcount and lower ongoing operating expense.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2018, we recorded a pre-tax charge of $192 million related to severance pay and benefits. The charge is included within the "Compensation and benefits" line item in the statements of consolidated income. In addition, a $71 million pre-tax charge for other transformation related costs was also recorded. There were no comparable costs for the first six months of 2017.