Spark Analytics Blog Engaged Employees: The Solution to Rising Retail Labor Costs

The majority of U.S retailers are no strangers to rising labor costs. Many cities and states have raised the minimum wage for all associates, some as high as $15 an hour. This is partially in an effort to attract premium talent and keep current employees happy. Starbucks Chief Operating Officer Troy Alstead wrote in a letter to all U.S. employees, "The new rates will ensure we are paying a competitive wage that better positions us to attract and keep the best partners (employees)."