The disruptions, and the subsequent circumventions, have accelerated Amazon and Walmart’s takeover at the expense of independent retailers.
small business
Posted inMoney, Politics, and Power
Amazon’s Attack on Women’s Health
A company that treats a common pelvic ailment will soon have all its FDA-compliant medical devices undiscoverable in general search—because they are deemed “adult.”
Posted inMoney, Politics, and Power
Amazon Warns Sellers: Marketplace Could Shut Down If Congress Tries to Regulate It
Direct email communications seek to motivate third-party sellers to lobby their representatives.
Posted inMoney, Politics, and Power
Entrepreneurship, Amazon Style
Creating outside companies for deliveries and freight follows a franchising model that leads to lower wages and captive “independent” business.
Posted inCoronavirus
This Small-Business Disaster Relief Program Is a Disaster
Targeted EIDL Advance, a $35 billion initiative for hard-hit businesses, nonprofits, and freelancers, has caused headaches across the country with delays and mismanagement.
Posted inFirst 100
First 100: Arts Venue Closures Likely After Months-Long Delay in Federal Grant Program
Technical glitches at the Small Business Administration leaves independent business owners on a knife’s edge.
Posted inFirst 100
First 100: The Small Business Relief Snarl
There’s $120 billion left in PPP forgivable loans, with only three weeks left to apply. Small businesses are struggling to get traditional loans, too.
Posted inFirst 100
First 100: Small Business Relief Not Getting Out Quickly
Biden and others are too obsessed with fraud prevention to deliver for business owners eligible for PPP loans and “Save Our Stages” grants.
Posted inMoney, Politics, and Power
Wealthy Congressman Repeatedly Squeezes Small-Business Tenants
Texas Republican Michael McCaul’s real estate firms have pursued two dozen lawsuits for back rent in the San Antonio area, despite structural issues with the properties and other hardships.
Posted inCoronavirus
Business, Interrupted
Many small-business owners expected insurance to help them during the pandemic. They got a rude awakening.