Mineral Point, Wisconsin – A Dollar General store in Mineral Point, Wisconsin found itself temporarily closed after the entire workforce walked out, citing grueling seven-day workweeks and a lack of appreciation. The manager, Trina Tribolet, along with six other employees, had been contemplating their departure for months before finally taking action, leaving a heartfelt handwritten sign on the door thanking customers and explaining their reasons for leaving.
The team’s decision to quit was fueled by a combination of feeling overworked, underappreciated, and witnessing the company’s wasteful practices, particularly regarding unsold but still usable items being thrown away instead of donated to the local community. This final act of waste was reportedly the tipping point for the employees, leading them to take a stand against what they perceived as corporate greed.
Tribolet expressed disappointment in witnessing perfectly good items being tossed aside, highlighting the moral dilemma she faced as a manager. Despite Dollar General’s claims of donating food to local food banks, the employees were adamant about the necessity for policy changes to prevent further waste and address the needs of the community in a more humane manner.
The workers’ departure also shed light on the strenuous working conditions they faced, with Tribolet herself working seven days a week for an extended period. Despite the challenges, the former employees were determined to stand up for their principles and seek better treatment in the workplace, ultimately leading them to make the decision to leave en masse.
In response to the sudden workforce exodus, Dollar General swiftly took measures to reopen the store, either relocating staff from other locations or quickly filling the vacant positions. The company emphasized its commitment to providing a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and heard, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused by the temporary store closure.
While the specifics of the employees’ salaries were not disclosed, the minimum wage in Wisconsin serves as a reference point for potential wage levels. Dollar General’s efforts to swiftly address the workforce shortage indicate a dedication to maintaining operations and serving the community despite the unexpected staffing challenges at the Mineral Point location.