Once upon a checkout lane, convenience became king. In this episode, we trace the rise of the “everything store” — from five-and-dimes to fluorescent mega-aisles — and how a handful of retail giants reshaped America’s working class. We’ll look at the promises that were made (lower prices, more jobs, endless choice) and the quieter costs that came due (union busting, shuttered main streets, supply chains stretched thin across oceans). Somewhere between the smiley-face stickers and falling prices, a whole way of life got rolled back.
Further Reading :
Nelson Lichtenstein, The Retail Revolution: How Wal-Mart Created a Brave New World of Business
A definitive academic take on how Walmart transformed labor relations, global trade, and corporate strategy in America.
Bethany Moreton, To Serve God and Wal-Mart: The Making of Christian Free Enterprise
A fascinating dive into the culture, gender politics, and religious framing that supported the rise of retail giants.
Frontline (PBS), Is Wal-Mart Good for America?
A classic documentary exploring the hidden costs of the retail behemoth’s rise.
Stacy Mitchell, Big-Box Swindle
Investigates how large retailers erode local economies and what alternatives could look like.
Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR.org)
Ongoing reporting and resources on anti-monopoly advocacy and the revival of local businesses.
