Wal-Mart raises might lift pay in lower-wage industries

[Omaha Steve]

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_LOW_WAGE_WORKERS_PAY_RAISES?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

BY CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER AND CANDICE CHOI
AP BUSINESS WRITERS

Feb 20, 5:11 PM EST

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The modest raises that Wal-Mart has said it will give its lowest-paid workers provide a glimmer of hope for lower-wage workers in other companies and industries.

Other retailers and some fast food restaurants may now feel compelled to follow suit to retain their workers and attract others to fill openings, economists said.

Wal-Mart's move follows a sustained campaign for higher wages by some of the company's employees and a nationwide debate over whether to raise the federal minimum wage. Given Wal-Mart's position as the nation's largest private employer, its decision to yield, even in a limited way, could embolden more employees to seek raises.

"They really set the standard across the retail sector," said Claire McKenna, a policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project, which advocates for low-wage workers. "What they do really matters."

FULL story at link.



FILE - In this Sept. 4, 2014 file photo, protestors, including Kris Varrette, right, chant for increased wages and union rights at fast food restaurants in Las Vegas. Wal-Mart’s decision to raise hourly wages for its lowest-paid workers provides a glimmer of hope for others working at minimum wage or just above. Other retailers and fast food restaurants may now follow suit in order to hold on to employees. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

[Sherman A1]

1. It may

but, in reality this is simply throwing a few bones to the lower tiers to keep them quiet. Wal Mart is only doing this because they believe it to be in their best interest.