I was in my local oil change place yesterday, which I frequent because it's locally owned and not a chain.
The owner was talking to a lady who questioned him about staffing issues, and seemed stunned that he didn't have one
Listening in I heard him tell her that if your employees are not happy to begin with, then it will go sideways on you. no matter how much you pay
He went on to say that his labor costs have gone up by at least $2.50 per hour per employee each of the last two years Even with this and the increased cost of supplies, he has only had to have two small price increases to keep his margins.
She seemed stunned and asked how many part time employees it takes to run the business.
He told her he only has two part time people, but he adds a couple of high school kids to work summers.
The rest of the staff are full time and he uses the part timers to cover when the other employees need a specific or extra day off.
This explains why I see the same young ladies every time I go in. He retains employees by paying well and treating them decently AND still makes a profit.
It also explains how the level of service has improved since he bought the place a few years ago..