![[Daniel Gunther, who works at a Meijer megastore north of Detroit, says he has been told 'get people in and out' of the checkout line to improve efficiency.]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/P1-AN646_MAYNAR_A_20081116202921.jpg)
With nearly all retailers under the gun to cut costs and improve profit margins, "labor-waste elimination" systems are sweeping the industry.
![[eBay]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CI956_eBaysb_A_20080917104216.jpg)
EBay, looking to expand its global classified-ad business, is taking advantage of an economic slowdown to buy promising private companies.
Irked by eBay's changes in fees and the feedback-rating system, merchants are gravitating to smaller alternative sites. But shoppers must beware when buying on newer e-commerce sites.
Blog: Changes eBay sellers would like to see on the site
![[small biz]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CO667_smallb_C_20081028110829.jpg)
Have you got eight hours and $10? Then you can build a Web site for your business. Here's a guide for business owners looking to make the leap online.
![[States Set New Data Privacy Laws]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/MK-AS409_securi_C_20081015164354.jpg)
Nevada is the first of several states adopting new laws that will force businesses to revamp the way they protect customer data.
![[Interwrite]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CI280_Interw_C_20080914182144.jpg)
A song-parody contest helped a classroom technology firm grow closer to teachers and students as well as generate sales leads.
A virtual marketplace for crafters offers several ways for its customers to connect -- and also embraces their off-site interaction.
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