A Dollar General store in Wisconsin recently faced an unexpected situation when its entire workforce decided to quit at the same time, leading to a temporary closure. The employees, including the store manager Trina Tribolet, cited several reasons for their resignation, primarily the demanding seven-day work weeks and a lack of appreciation. According to Tribolet, the decision to quit had been brewing for months among the seven-member team. The breaking point came after a particularly exhausting workweek, prompting them to leave a message on the store’s door, thanking their loyal customers and explaining their departure.
The handwritten sign on the door read, “We quit! Thank you to our amazing customers. We love you and will miss you!" Another sign further explained that the closure was due to the entire team walking away, expressing their grievances of feeling overworked, underpaid, and undervalued, reported New York Post.
One of the major issues that led to their resignation was the store’s policy of discarding items that were still usable but nearing their expiration date. Tribolet highlighted the irony of throwing away perfectly good items, such as coffee and cereal, that could have been donated to those in need. This practice, despite Dollar General’s claims of donating to the local community, deeply troubled the employees.
“I’ve seen items get thrown away that could have gone to somebody that needed them. We’re throwing away coffee that’s not expired but it’s close. Or you’re throwing out a box of Lucky Charms that you know there’s a whole world of kids who would love to eat those. But you can’t donate them, because you’re supposed to throw them away," said Tribolet as reported by the news portal.
Tribolet also mentioned that working seven days a week had taken a toll on her mental health, as she had not had a break since Christmas. While she plans to take some time off before seeking new employment, the other former employees already had new jobs lined up before leaving.
Dollar General, in response, stated that they have strict guidelines for food donations, in line with Feeding America’s regulations. Despite this, Tribolet claimed that usable items were still being thrown away, including canned goods which are generally accepted as donations by food banks.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by retail workers, especially regarding working conditions and wage disparities. Dollar General, a Tennessee-based discount chain with nearly 19,000 locations nationwide, has since reopened the store after quickly filling the vacant positions.
While the specific wages of the Mineral Point Dollar General employees were not disclosed, Wisconsin’s minimum wage is $7.25 (approx. Rs 600) per hour, raising concerns about fair compensation for retail workers.
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