I know a lot of people are vehement in their hatred of Wal-Mart, but have you ever wondered how many of them shop there? I have, because recently my area was involved with blocking a Wal-Mart from moving in. A lot of people protested Wal-Mart and used any and all scare tactics available in order to convince everyone that Wal-Mart is evil. Despite that, just how do you suppose Wal-Mart had the demographics to propose moving into my area? Simple - just about all of them shop at Wal-Mart themselves.
The thing is, a lot of people were concerned that Wal-Mart might impede on their way of life, but they don't mind shopping at an existing Wal-Mart to save a few bucks, as opposed to supporting other businesses. I would actually end up in line at a Wal-Mart checkout counter behind some of those most passionate about keeping Wal-Mart away from where I live. Yet, these same people who frequented Wal-Mart would have hanged anyone who stood in between their exaggerated claims of horror that Wal-Mart would have brought along had they moved in here.
I'm well aware that opposition to Wal-Mart is not limited to my area - it's happening all over the country. I also know that a lot of it has some merit as well, but how effective is opposing Wal-Mart if you shop there, even if it's just here and there? Another interesting thing I've noticed is that while one may say their opposed to Wal-Mart, they apparently don't care in the least about any other major retailers and whatever controversies may be attached with them.
My only serious issue with Wal-Mart is their track record with not treating employees properly. It's a shame, and considering just how big Wal-Mart is, they can afford to be a good employer. I don't know if it is Wal-Mart as a whole that has some secret policy to mistreat workers, or if it is individual stores, but something has to change there. On the other hand, there are other chains and major retailers that aren't known for being great employers. I don't see anyone boycotting McDonald's for how they treat their employees.
recommend this
email
print
link to this page
Comments: 17
Wal-Mart is not the only company that doesn't treat their employees right. But what is treating them right? Letting them stand around and chit chat? Sorry but even people with mile long degrees have to put up with someone else's crap, that's life. People that make millions of dollars a year still have a boss to answer to. And generally when you foul up the answering to isn't going to be nice whether you work at Wal-Mart as a cashier or you are Paris Hilton.
Target it is not, But there is good in there as well
Every time I walk into a lovely traditional grocery store, I am reminded that the product I am considering is such and such cents cheaper at the Wal-mart!
Additionally, I have become aware of several employees in my local Wal-mart who confirm that it is not the best place to work. They speak passionately of how they feel that Wal-mart is a Goliath that must be felled!
It's sad really.
We have Targets here too and they are a joke: overpriced and with half the selection of goods. Looking at their parking lot tells you we're not the only ones who think so...If someone does a better job I'll go there to buy too, till then it's off we go to shop!
Again, I don't approve of Wal-Mart's record of mistreating employees. Beyond that, I think their prices are reasonable and help a lot of people living on a tight budget. Not a lot of places will allow their employees sit around and do nothing, and expect a lot of work without paying much - this includes small businesses as well.