I've been managing a small coffee shop for four years, and the debate about raising minimum wage keeps coming up with my staff. Some argue that higher wages mean I'd have to cut hours or raise prices, but I've actually seen loyalty and productivity improve when I pay above the legal minimum. Yet, I wonder if this works only for small businesses with tight margins, or if larger chains just absorb the cost differently. Is raising the minimum wage really a net positive for local economies, or does it force automation and reduce entry-level jobs?