by Charles FishmanEver wonder how Walmart can beat their competitors' prices year after year? These chilling tales of just how Walmart squeezes those bargain prices out of manufacturers and vendors are scarier than most thrillers. I read this book about 4 years ago and have totally sworn off of shopping at Walmart. Some bargains just aren't worth the damage they do. Definitely worth reading.
Another book that deals in part with Walmart and the company's effect on local economies is NICKEL AND DIMED: On not getting by in America by Barbara Ehrenreich.
While I am not a big fan of WalMart, I would like to add that the slant of the book is not the whole picture. Recently I donated copy for Inland Temporary Homes- a shelter for homeless families, and the local WalMart is on their donor's list.
ReplyDeleteAt Cal State University Fullerton, there is a professor there who poured his life-savings into developing a home product. He couldn't sell it. WalMart picked it up for less than it cost him to produce- but once WalMart had it, everyone else had to have it. He made millions from the PR because the public loved the cleaning device. So- while the silver lining may not be as compelling a story to write- as readers, we should look for it.
Good review. Would not have written if not for your post. Thank you from warm and sunny Southern California.
Lydia, thanks for your comment. I just started this blog this month and was beginning to feel like the tree that fell in the forest.
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