This week Wal-Mart's first store opens in the city, in the westside's Austin neighborhood. Following months of controversy over wages, benefits, and the effects of a "big box" corporation, a few hundred people are newly employed (edging out thousands of other applicants). During the upcoming months, NPR will be covering the opening and ongoing life of Wal-Mart with firsthand accounts from employees and neighborhood residents.
The big question: Does the company drive down wages or jumpstart economic development? Check out the Wal-Mart Thread on AT:NY from '05.
walmart is the devil -don't shop there. 'nuf said.
"The big question: Does the company drive down wages or jumpstart economic development?"
That's no longer a question anymore. It's been answered all over the country. No where has Walmart ever jumpstarted economic development. Its economic effects on communities have been devastating.
As stefan says: please don't shop there! And if at all possible, avoid goods made in China and factories that don't support fair wages and working conditions.