American retailers face intense competition to offer consumer goods at the lowest possible price. While this saves consumers money, what side effect could damage our economy? Advertisers earn a greater share of the sales dollar to let consumers know of the low prices. Shippers must charge more than before due to the rising cost of fuel. Retail stores try to keep prices down by automating checkout equipment. To offer products at lower prices, manufacturers move their plants to foreign countries where labor is cheap, leaving Americans out of a job. Retailers use computer programs to help them control inventory.