The Good Jobs StrategyDigby Jones Restaurants, Car Dealerships, Hotels, and a host of other businesses that prominently dot the urban landscape of the U.S.A. have understandably suffered as a result of a hollowed-out middle class which is now relegated to low (or no) wages. Take for example a retail employee which Zeynep once interviewed, who said that We are throwaways who are a dime a dozen just human robots, really. Defenders of this system have argued that American corporations, to stay competitive internationally, must cut wages and benefits to a minimum and essentially squeeze as much productive value as possible out of each worker. However, Zeynep argues that good jobs and happy, well-compensated employees are in fact a key element of a virtuous cycle for companies, which ultimately results in low prices and increased profitability. She focuses on retailing, citing some popular chains such as Costco and Trader Joes. Both of those companies offer good pay and benefits to their full-time employees, all while offering prices which closely compare to some of their bad job competition such as Sams Club. This article first appeared on Ingenious Press. Follow us on our Facebook and Twitter Pages for weekly updates on independent news and other alternative media. 