Quote Originally Posted by Cataholic View Post

As to the closing of the plants- it is sad. But, businesses have the right to make money. Even lots of money. There are so many people out there that haven't had a raise in years (I don't think I had had a raise in 7 years...), and were required to pay more for their 'entitlements' each year, all the while coverages were less. Unions were great- a long time ago. They have outlived their usefulness, IMO.
In addition to the $1 mil+++ the CEO is getting...

Hostess Brands is looking to give their managers a bonus of up to 75 percent of their annual pay so they will stay on and help close down the company, but the U.S. Trustee, an agent of the U.S. Department of Justice, said the plan for bonuses was improper.
Cat - as for unions outliving their usefulness...I hear that thrown around all the time. I have spent a good part of my career helping companies avoid unions. Doing things the right way so people don't want or need a union. But I will tell you - some companies deserve unions. Companies get unions because they do not treat their employees equitably. They play favorites. It is not money that drives people to unions (sure the union promises them more money) it is - I avoid the word "fair" but it is about management and how people are treated. I have been in a number of campaings to keep unions out and every time it is the same thing.

Just recently I had situations with two clients. Both involved employees at different levels. In both situations one employee was a friend of the boss. The other employee in both situations was a low level "worker bee." Same behavior - different consequences. The "boss friends" got a pass on behavior that got the worker bees fired. I had to push very hard on both clients for there to be ANY consequences for the boss friends.

There is still a need for a level playing field. Of course companies should make lots and lots of profits. That is not the issue. It is possible to do both - make lots of money AND treat your employees right.