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Though the polls show wide public support for increasing the federal minimum wage, progress politically on this issue is almost non-existent.
However, outside of the world of politics, many Americans have been getting raises. In February, some of the largest retailers in the nation – Gap, Walmart and Ikea, amongst others – have raised their minimum wage as has TJX the parent company for Marshalls, HomeGoods and T.J. Maxx.
Today another larger retailer joined in. Target Corp will increase its minimum wage next month for all workers to $9 per hour, which matches the moves of rivals TJX Cos and Walmart.
This move comes after pressure from a number of labor groups and their allies, which have called for fast food companies as well as retailers to provide a living wage across the nation.
Target executives did not make a formal announcement, so all the reports on this are still officially unofficial, although the retailer reportedly told its employees about the hike in wages, indicating it would take effect in all the U.S. sometime during the spring.
This decision by Target is positive news for the economy.
Walmart’s announcement signaled that the retailer wants good talent and does not want to lose workers to other competitors, which in turn gives a sign that there is an increased competition to get more workers.
There is little doubt over the ripple effect in the marketplace. The more retailers look to get an advantage, the more they look to recruit employees that are the best to their business.
Walmart made the move that then prompted action from TJX , which in turn led to action by Target.
Target executives have said recently they wanted to remain competitive with their wages and would make specific adjustments based upon different circumstances in local markets.
