Whether to patronize locally owned stores or chains is not at the top of the mind for many holiday shoppers. But it should be. It’s a choice that has profound implications for our economy and for our communities. Continue reading
Retail workers in the U.S. are making $4.5 billion less each year due to Wal-Mart’s presence, according to a new study by the University of California’s Center for Labor Research and Education. Continue reading
The arrival of national chain stores often drives-up commercial rents, forcing out small, locally owned businesses that serve the everyday needs of the surrounding neighborhood. This typically occurs when a shopping area becomes a destination for tourists or others who live outside of the immediate area. Neighbors may find their local hardware store or grocery… Continue reading
We assume that the chains represent economic progress, but in fact they take far more out of our economy than they contribute. Continue reading
The first two maps show the density of Walmart stores by state. The third shows abandoned Walmart stores. Continue reading
Tesco — a British-based chain and the world’s fifth largest retailer —wants to open 100 stores in the western U.S. by early 2008 and another 400 outlets over the next few years. Continue reading
A two-year-old campaign dedicated to building greater support for locally owned businesses in Salt Lake City and across Utah is having a considerable impact. Sales are up, according to participating businesses, and a recent poll by The Salt Lake Tribune found that 3 out 4 residents want the city to adopt policies that favor local businesses and limit where and how many chains are allowed. Continue reading
Interviews with 18 local suppliers—who produce everything from fresh vegetables, dairy products and meat, to prepared and processed foods—raise serious questions about Whole Foods’ commitment to promoting local food. While some farmers and vendors reported a positive experience, many have encountered corporate policies that impede, and even undermine, their success. Continue reading
This lecture was delivered by Stacy Mitchell at the 26th Annual E.F. Schumacher Lectures in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Continue reading
For years local business owners and their supporters in the Arizona legislature have tried to put an end to the massive subsidies that cities in the Phoenix metro routinely dole out to chain retail developers. Bills to prohibit the giveaways were introduced in session after session, only to fail. But this year, lawmakers at last endorsed a measure that outlaws subsides for retail projects in Maricopa and Pinal counties, which encompass the Phoenix metro and include two-thirds of the state’s population. Continue reading
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