PITTSFIELD, Mass. — With the impending increase in Massachusetts’ sales tax, the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce urges businesses and residents to “Buy Now. Buy in the Berkshires,” before the 25 percent hike takes place on Saturday, August 1, 2009.
 
“The Chamber recognizes the severity of the economic conditions here in the Berkshires and its impacts on the business community,” said Michael Supranowicz, President & CEO of the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce. “With the unlikely chance of another Massachusetts Tax Free Weekend, we believe that by encouraging both businesses and residents to make their purchases before the increase on August 1st will yield significant cost savings on sizeable purchases. Additionally, it is critical that we continue to patronize the more than 4,800 businesses here in Berkshire County. It is these organizations who employ our family, friends and neighbors, and it is our responsibility to support one another.”
 
The Massachusetts Legislature recently amended the Massachusetts sales and use tax to increase the rate from 5 percent to 6.25 percent and repeal the exemption for alcoholic beverages (beer, wine and liquor) sold at retail. The increase is expected to generate an estimated $633 million. And, of the five states bordering Massachusetts, only Rhode Island, at 7 percent, has a sales tax rate above 6.25 percent. Massachusetts; however, does not impose sales taxes on groceries, clothing under $175, and prescription drugs.
 
In December 2008, the Berkshire Chamber kicked off the Buy in the Berkshires campaign that was continued through a large-scale event held at Jiminy Peak in June. This premier event called Buy in the Berkshires Expo, was a collaboration between the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and the Berkshire Visitors Bureau. It is rooted in the realization that it's more important than ever to support the businesses that call Berkshire County home during this current economic climate. By supporting businesses in the Berkshires, you are helping to preserve the character and spirit of our region.