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There’s no such thing as free shipping
Nov 29, 2018

There’s no such thing as free shipping

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Big retailers have followed Amazon's lead in making free shipping a staple. But that leaves small businesses in the uncomfortable position of managing expectations or just eating the cost of two-day air themselves. But first: Wages are up, inflation is down and consumer spending is on the rise again. That's all good, right? Well, maybe. We'll walk through some of the warning signs of downturn to look out for. Plus: A look back in trade history, when Japan had a turbulent relationship with the U.S.

Segments From this episode

Free, fast shipping during the holidays can pressure small businesses

Nov 29, 2018
How some stores have been dealing with buyer expectations.
A worker sorts packages at a UPS facility in 2010 in Hodgkins, Illinois.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

Keeping the family recycling business afloat

Nov 29, 2018
There have been rough years before, but this year may be the toughest.
SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images

Big retailers have followed Amazon’s lead in making free shipping a staple. But that leaves small businesses in the uncomfortable position of managing expectations or just eating the cost of two-day air themselves. But first: Wages are up, inflation is down and consumer spending is on the rise again. That’s all good, right? Well, maybe. We’ll walk through some of the warning signs of downturn to look out for. Plus: A look back in trade history, when Japan had a turbulent relationship with the U.S.

Music from the episode

Chartreuse Capital Cities
Pretty Pimpin Kurt Vile
Fighting Machine Age
Everybody Loves The Sunshine Takuya Kuroda, José James