Published in the August 14, 2015 editionnosalestax_fb

The great people at Melrose Oriental Rug, like just about every other merchant in Melrose, have always embraced the state’s sales tax free weekend. Dave Mouradian will offer through Sunday 10 to 30 percent off all rugs in addition to there being no sales tax. According to an advertisement last week, there is all manner of savings in store at the 937 Main St. business. For example, if you had your eye on a 9 foot by 12 foot rug regularly priced at $3,550, the August sale of 30 percent off would knock $1,065 off right away, with another $155.30 saved through the sales tax holiday.

A total savings of $1,160 is nothing to sneeze at, which is just one reason why we think the sales tax free weekend should be an automatic annual event.

Others hoping for a big weekend are businesses like Whittemore Hardware, Miter Biter, Hugo’s and Gray’s Appliance. According to Will Gray, people actually begin preparing for sales tax free purchases at the Franklin Square institution as early as July, talking pricing and eyeing the merchandise.

“It does give local resident the chance to save money on purchases of things they need to make their homes better,” he said of the sales tax free weekend. Gray said a lot of those taking advantage of the holiday are people looking to remodel their kitchen.

“With the manufacturer’s rebates and the sales tax savings, you’re looking at upwards of $1,000” customers don’t have to take from their pockets this weekend.

Shop locally Saturday and Sunday, and save some hard-earned cash in the process.