Last modified: Friday, August 15, 2008 1:06 AM EDT Sign advertising tax free weekend at Bob's Discount Furniture in South Attleboro. (Staff photo by Mike George) With tax holiday comes hot deals BY JIM HAND SUN CHRONICLE STAFF As if the sales tax holiday this weekend was not enough to get shoppers out in droves, many area businesses are offering added incentives to boost sales. Elco Floor Covering in downtown Attleboro, for instance, is offering customers an extra 5 percent off purchases on top of the 5 percent they will save from not paying the state sales tax. Calvin Archard of Elco said he would guess that business doubles during the tax holiday and he wanted to make shopping even more appealing. "We're giving an extra 5 percent on top of the 5 percent," he said. Down the street at Attleboro Jewelry Makers outlet, Nancy Young said she is putting on extra sales help for the weekend, anticipating large crowds. She estimated that business jumps five to eight times a normal weekend during the tax holiday. "It's a really good time for it," she said, explaining that a lot of customers like to buy now in advance for holidays and birthdays. The tax holiday - which has become an annual event - applies only to purchases up to $2,500. Young, however, said the outlet will take off 5 percent on purchases above $2,500 up to $7,500. "We want to help get them the incentive to buy," she said. She said she is anticipating a lot of sales because customers have been calling all week making appointments to talk to sales staff. Over in Seekonk, Soccer World is also banking on a big weekend. Owner Raul Reis said this is a perfect time for his customers to save the 5 percent on taxes because the fall soccer season is about to start up. "It will be crazy in here. Kids come in buying cleats and shin guards. We are also clearing out last year's models," he said. The savings are not restricted to small local stores. The large chains are getting in on the act. Lowe's, the home improve store, is has extras like an additional 10 percent off on major appliances and 5 percent off on snow blowers, as well as other bonuses. Ann & Hope Curtain & Bath Outlet Shop is also giving customers and extra 5 percent discount. JC Penney clothing stores in Massachusetts are extending their hours for the weekend. The tax holidays have become politically popular, although some question their effectiveness. Critics such as state Rep. Steve D'Amico, D-Seekonk, contend they do not stimulate business, they only concentrate sales on one weekend, forcing stores to spend more on clerical help and causing consumers to hold off purchases until the holiday comes around. JIM HAND covers politics for The Sun Chronicle. He can be reached at 508-236-0399 or at jhand@thesunchronicle.com.