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| Flcikr CC via Toyota UK |
The government shutdown has been keeping thousands of
federal employees from receiving their paychecks. Some generous companies, such as Toyota, are showing support and understanding for these furloughed workers,
who have not been to work in two weeks due to a deadlock in congress over
federal spending.
Several car companies are showing support and
forgiveness. Hyundai, Nissan and Toyota
are allowing deferred payments from their financing departments for employees
that may get behind in paying bills while they are not receiving a
paycheck. All three automobile companies
are offering a three month deferral on car payments. Toyota’s announcement is also including
workers who have been hurt due to loss of business from the shutdown, such as
contractors and suppliers. The deferral
is for any customer using Toyota or Lexus Financial Services.
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| Flickr CC via GMW Design |
Other businesses have shown support for furloughed workers through discounts and free merchandise. Politically outspoken Starbucks CEO Howard
Schultz announced that anyone who buys someone else a coffee drink will get
free coffee. This was announced shortly
after Schultz urged the government to end the shutdown. Boston Market also has given away free
rotisserie chickens to federal employees and military personnel. The cinema chain AMC offered free popcorn to
any furloughed employees.
The government shutdown, which appears to be showing no
signs of ending, has retailers nervous as the holiday season approaches. Macy’s has already announced Black Friday
sales will start early, on Thanksgiving.
Although federal employees make up a small percentage of the workforce,
concerns for the economic situation in relation to the troubles in Washington
has many businesses concerned.
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