This looks like a potential soapbox topic, but I have a hard time seeing unions as a solution to any current day problem. Raise wages, but add union dues; add more benefits, but also add the union infrastructure, who are not known for working cheaply, to the economic equation. In the end, the consumer has to pay. for it...increasing the prices of the wonderful imported products that dominate retail shelves in the US. Have unions increased or decreased the number of automotive jobs here? There was certainly a time when the workers were absolutely abused, but I feel those days are largely gone and the providers of that solution have become an ever present cause of new problems.
As a driver, before I was in expediting, I did a lot of drop-and-hooks at Wal-Mart DCs. Loved them. Fairly consistant operating and security procedures, etc. Live loads, I know, are not so fun there just like most large food and retail warehouses, and store level loads that I have done have been like any home depot/menards type loads.
Regarding the need for food stamps by retail associates...most likely true, I would guess. Not at all unlike the people who fill the more junior ranks of our military...personally that bothers me more than the level of shelf-stocker pay. IMHO.
It gets easier every time to turn a Laredo load down....
