This weekend marks a tax-free holiday, encouraging consumers to ‘shop small.’ 22News caught up with local small businesses as they prepare for a busy weekend ahead.
Mark your calendars for August 10th and 11th when the sales tax will be waived for items under $2,500. The tax-free holiday offers a significant opportunity for small businesses to boost their sales and attract new customers.
“People look forward to saving that extra money. You know, on a $1,000 sale, 62 bucks is quite a bit of savings for most,” said Jason Brazee, Owner of Western Mass Appliances in Holyoke.
Western Mass Appliances in Holyoke is already stocking up on inventory. “We have over 600 appliances in stock ready to go and a lot of new stuff in stock as well,” expressed Brazee.
Over at Family Bike and Sports in East Longmeadow, special deals are being offered on top of the tax exemption to entice shoppers. “We have some bikes that were $650, they were on sale for $535, and you can save another 6.25 percent, so another $30 or $40,” said Ray Plouffe, Owner of Family Bicycle Shop in East Longmeadow.
While there is a lot of preparation involved, business owners are excited about the extra traffic this weekend will bring.
“It’s historically a great weekend for us, but we just look forward to helping people more than anything because that’s what we’re here for,” said Brazee.
“It’s great because sometimes that Saturday and Sunday, it’s chaotic,” added Plouffe.
To avoid the rush, small businesses recommend that people come in earlier to pre-shop or decide ahead of time what items they want to purchase.