Tax holiday big success
Mississippi retailers are reporting big business from the state’s first sales tax holiday, including stores and restaurants not eligible to participate in the two-day event.
Meanwhile, supporters are talking about the possibility of a three-day event next year to include more tax-free items, such as school supplies.
Traffic jammed roads, stores and parking lots statewide Friday and Saturday as shoppers enjoyed a 7 percent break on clothing and footwear priced under $100.
“It was wonderful. Could we have another one next weekend, please?” said Derenda Hancock, manager of Up the Creek Grill in Flowood. The eatery in the Dogwood Festival Market saw a 35 percent increase in business, she said.
Thomas Iupe, owner of TC’s Uniforms, said he saw the same hike at his school uniform store.
“I know the state’s making a sacrifice, but with the economy the way it is, it gave us a boost,” he said.