Overview
Explore the future of retail employment in this panel discussion from The Aspen Institute's Working in America series. Delve into how technological advancements, e-commerce growth, and shifting business practices are reshaping the retail landscape. Examine the potential risks and opportunities for frontline workers, including cashiers, retail salespersons, and stock clerks. Gain insights from industry experts on how these changes may affect hiring practices, job design, and training across various retail segments. Analyze the differences in approach between publicly traded and privately held companies, small and large businesses, and brick-and-mortar versus online retailers. Learn about fair scheduling laws, minimum wage debates, and strategies for investing in workers to enhance productivity and customer loyalty. Consider the role of Wall Street incentives and the potential for cooperative business models in shaping the future of retail work.
Syllabus
Introduction
Hardware Stores vs Online Retailers
Challenges for Retail Workers
Fair Scheduling Laws
New Jobs
Different Pay
Fulfillment Center Jobs
Can You Pay Workers Better
Invest in Workers
Customer Loyalty
Minimum Wage
Raising Minimum Wage
Childcare
Wall Street Incentives
Show Me Attitude
The Coop
The Old Guy
The Future of Retail
Worker Productivity
Taught by
The Aspen Institute