Walmart's not running other grocery stores out of business. They offer more for less - and the free market calls the winner
Let me back up here a minute and address the "free market" issue. I am all for a "free market" and I do not resent Wal-Mart for it's profits.
Wal-Marts profits have nothing to do with my additonal preferance to keep my money in the LOCAL ECONOMY. Spending at Wal-Mart sends profits out of my town/state/area.
I prefer Local Merchants in every instance. It makes good economic sense to build and sustain the economy where I live. I prefer to see my neighbors profit rather than some CEO living afar.
My local merchants charge more and seldom train employees in business basics. Here's the tradeoff: either good service and knowledge or good price. Our "local merchants" often don't offer service, knowledge or good prices. I'm not alone in my feelings -- check the numbers. On a level playing field, Walmart wins by offering more at a better price - and usually with honest, helpful staff.
I know of two honest to goodness, small time, owner operated, bookstores and one owner operated grocery store -- and I shop at all three. These three places are the exception. Most of our "local owned stores" are owner absent, poorly run, and expensive.
I keep money in the local economy by not spending large amounts at price inflated stores where I get little value for my dollar. If you prefer local merchants, go for it. They gave up their share of the market by offering so little. If they want my business they need to offer more than guilt trips.
Wal-Marts profits have nothing to do with my additional preference to keep my money in the LOCAL ECONOMY. Spending at Wal-Mart sends profits out of my town/state/area.
I prefer Local Merchants in every instance. It makes good economic sense to build and sustain the economy where I live. I prefer to see my neighbors profit rather than some CEO living afar.