The economy is a zero sum game, between the employee and employer…In order for employers to make more money and keep their “Quality of Life” in the face of increasing materials costs, and competition, and they cut back on the one expense they can control, the wages of their workers.
In order for an employee to maintain their Quality of Life, the wages need to stay ahead of inflation in order to save and build up wealth…AHEAD OF INFLATION
There may appear to be a win-win scenario, but there is usually the employer winning more due to their advantageous position in the relationship