Amid the worst product shortages in US history, unionized chains hold a distinct advantage, which Burt Flickinger discussed with Dagen McDowell on his weekly "Retail Roundup" on Mornings with Maria, with a competitive edge going to Kroger, Fred Meyer, Meijer/Michigan, Ahold, Albertsons/Safeway and Costco. Also: Consumers should start shopping now for the holidays amid a looming toy shortage. Shelves are likely to be 40-50% empty as we head into the holidays, while 56% of consumers say they are afraid to go into stores, aggressively decreasing spending between Labor Day and New Years.