[BobL]

As opposed to 25 years ago, it’s not so easy for the corporations like Target and Walmart to virtue-signal by accepting the losses in those cities (with shop lifting and lawsuits likely being more costly than even looting), and simply increase their prices to cover those costs - thinking of it simply as a tax for operating in the US.

That’s because Amazon and many, many, similar companies exist. So if Target wants to jack their prices another 10%, they will lose a huge amount business. In fact, it’s very possible that stores are gone for good.

[ealgeone]

mayorette (?) of chiraq is begging walmart and others to stay in the city. wonder why??

[Zhang Fei]

[So if Target wants to jack their prices another 10%, they will lose a huge amount business. In fact, it’s very possible that stores are gone for good.]

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I don’t think competition from Amazon is a huge problem in these areas. Many residents don’t have credit cards, for the usual dysfunctional reasons. And poor impulse control means they have to have it right now. The principal problem is the big chains can’t charge higher prices. Discrimination suits are a problem. A single- or several-store grocery store franchisee can charge whatever the market will bear. Target and Walmart cannot, because they have deep pockets and can become the target of nationwide SJW harassment.