Replying to a message of PETER COGGON to ROB MCCART:

 PC>    What do you mean ...not a backlog of retired workers?

 PC>    In Japan they do.    Familys sort of pledge their loyality to
 PC> the company and participate, and in return, without money being
 PC> exchanged they are looked after, and educated, as well advised
 PC> what to do, as well have their money looked after, and investments
 PC> etc....pay for retirement, which in North America and elsewhere is
 PC> not liked.

Japan also has a tradition of 'papa-san' stores.  These are tiny, maybe
10'x10' neighborhood stores that sell consumer and household goods and
supplies.  They're generally run by elderly retirees and provide a source of
support for them.  Until fairly recently Japan didn't have the huge malls and
superstores that are destroying those traditional stores.

--- FleetStreet 1.19+