Study shows Wal-Mart has only small effect on surrounding economy

St. Paul, Minn. — A new study by researchers at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis suggests that Wal-Mart has a relatively small economic effect on communities where its stores are located and does not destroy local business.

The study results challenge the arguments of many Wal-Mart critics, who say jobs and downtowns suffer when the retailing giant comes to town.

Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer talked with Terry Fitzgerald, a senior economist at the Federal Reserve and lead author on the study.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, 01/09/2008, 7:25 a.m.