CONTACT: Bob Keener, 617-610-6766, bob@businessforafairminimumwage.org
Ann Arbor, MI, April 2, 2014 – Highlighting strong and growing business support for increasing the minimum wage, Zingerman’s owner Paul Saginaw hosted President Obama for lunch and then attended the speech calling for a raise in the minimum wage. Saginaw, a leading member of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, represents many business owners in Michigan and nationwide who support raising the minimum wage to $10.10 over three years. These business leaders – from Costco to small businesses – have signed the Business For a Fair Minimum Wage Statement, and more are signing every day.
Paul Saginaw said, “We know from experience a minimum wage increase makes great sense for business. Since opening Zingerman’s Deli almost 32 years ago, we’ve grown to eight businesses employing 625 permanent staff with revenues just under $50 million dollars. Paying entry wages our employees can live on has been important for our profitability and our annual compounded growth rate of 10 percent. Raising the minimum wage would boost our communities and our economy.”
Saginaw and other members of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, argue that a higher minimum wage will increase productivity and consumer demand, reduce the strain on the social safety net caused by inadequate wages, and strengthen businesses and the economy.
The minimum wage issue has gained significant momentum as polls show the vast majority of Americans across the political spectrum want it raised and numerous states are taking action.
Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a national network of business organizations, business owners and executives including: Costco, Eileen Fisher, Ben & Jerry's, Dansko footwear, New Belgium Brewing, Seventh Generation, Parnassus Investments, Organic Valley, Zingerman's Community of Businesses, American Sustainable Business Council, Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Alliance, ABC Home, National Latino Farmers and Ranchers Trade Association, Uncommon Goods, Spectronics Corporation, American Income Life, Vintage Vinyl, Lamey-Wellehan Shoes, independent ACE Hardware stores in various states, and many others.
NOTE: Zingerman’s owner Paul Saginaw and other members of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage are available for comment and/or television and radio booking. Please contact Bob Keener, 617-610-6766, bob@businessforafairminimumwage.org.
###