The minimum wage is going to be at $7.25 everywhere in short order anyway. I don't think they are actually going to leave. They'll threaten. But there is no where to run.
It really doesn't make sense to leave even if the minimum does not go up everywhere else. You just raise your prices to cover it, and you give that as your reason.
But the city is also demanding another $3 in benefits for every employee.
Plus, these stores will have higher insurance, higher rates of theft and vandalism, and higher employee turnover.
Something will have to give. There's not that big of a margin.
"But there is no where to run."
Will and Kendall counties are waiting...
What does $7.25 have to do with it? The article says $10.00 PLUS $3.00 in benefits.
And if you "just raise prices" the 'poor' workers in non big box stores making less will be even 'poorer'.
In addition to the minimum wage, the level of bribes and harrassment from building, zoning, health and other departments has to be considered.
I did a study in the early 60's on why manufacturing companies left the city. The decision was more emotional than financial. The owners of the factories were just tired of Ward Committeemen and others constantly pressuring the factory owners to buy tickets to some dinner and an AD in the AD BOOK. That cost of doing business was supposed to buy protection. But instead it became a list for building and zoning inspectors to milk ... a list of who was an easy mark.
Ah...hey Brilliant..you better get a new name. : ()