Catherine Roberts

Sales fell 6% as the Medina-based company continues to discount vehicles to get them off lots. At the same time, because of the “global macroeconomic environment,” the company’s costs were up.

A Gallup survey found managers had the greatest influence on nearly one-third of workers’ daily lives. Another study found that more than three-fourths of engaged workers said they had good managers.

Honorees work on their companies’ culture because they say it improves their performance.

The annual ranking of companies involves surveying employees.

While the Minneapolis-based retailer did not have blockbuster November and December sales, they were better than the company’s third quarter.

Each year, the Minnesota Star Tribune and Energage partner to rank companies on how employees view their employers.

Analysts predicted foot traffic in the last weekend before Christmas could match Black Friday.

A clear mission and objectives also contribute to buy-in, which in turn builds teamwork, they say.

Coming up through Minnesota office, Newinski now is studying AI.

Change is hard. 15-year Top Workplaces winners talk about how they managed through tough years

KPMG Chief Operating Officer Laura Newinski says AI is her current learning focus, and she is asking every employee to do the same.