The WSJ published a story about Costco treating its employees well, featuring cashiers who are millionaires. This story seems to be a reminder to companies busy with layoffs and efficiency drives: calculate the long-term return on employees.

Tony Bazaar, 60, has been working as a regular cashier, earning $32.90 an hour, with over $1 million accumulated in his 401(k) retirement savings.

Under the company's medical insurance, his out-of-pocket cost for a general outpatient visit is $15, and $25 for a specialist, far below the national average. In 2009, the Bazaar family bought a house with a pool; in the past decade, they have traveled to Europe twice.

Costco executives say such veteran employees have always been the company's secret weapon—experienced, loyal, and able to mentor new hires, passing on the company's unique culture.

For a long time, Costco has paid higher wages than most U.S. retailers to keep turnover low. The company's founder firmly believes this strategy reduces training costs for new employees and leads to better customer service.

The company's CFO said that at U.S. stores, "tens of thousands" of hourly employees have 401(k) balances exceeding $1 million. In the long run, this model is actually less costly.