For many companies, tough times end up pushing the work environment to the back burner. But other companies commit to employees' well-being and development, which can pay off handsomely—both now and in the future. (See the full report) Like many entrepreneurs, J.W. Hulme's owners borrowed heavily to fuel growth. Now the credit crunch has thrown the company -- and its owners lives -- into a spiral. Discounting is a strategy high-end restaurateurs have traditionally avoided or carried out in subtle ways. But this winter and spring, an unprecedented number of fine-dining restaurants slashed their prices. |