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Originally Posted by Cynthetiq
Others see discounters forcing investors to ask tough questions of themselves. For instance, what is the social value of keeping prices low for essential items as food and clothing? Should employees get better compensation, even if it means higher costs for those who can't afford to shop elsewhere? When one group has to make a sacrifice, should it be employees, customers, shareholders or local communities?
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This is a tough one. When I walk into Wal-Mart, I can choose from items made in China, Pakistan, and India. That can't be good for the US economy. Or maybe it is-I'm not an economist.
Costco seems to be doing fine, with much less employee turnover than Wal-Mart. There has to be another factor at work besides cost of labor, or lack of unionization.
It just occured to me that low wages would seem to benefit those politicians who favor expanded social programs. I doubt that there is a recipient of government assistance anywhere who will vote for smaller government, a la the Republican party. They, of course, would seem to favor low wages because of the effect it has on the balance sheet.
Once again, I seem to have straddled the fence.
Sorry if this belongs in the politics area.