This past weekend was a sales tax holiday in Massachusetts, which meant that purchases up to $2500 were not taxed, with a few exceptions, like automobiles. I was happy to see that some of my favorite retailers were on top of this and sent out some highly relevant and targeted messages. Here are a few of my favorites. 

 

The first is from Crate & Barrel. I like that it's very clear what the dates are and they include a link to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue so I can get all the details from the source if I have any questions. I also liked that they noted online purchases would also be tax-free, because some people may not have been able to make it to the store and would have not made a purchase when they otherwise would have. What surprised me was that they didn't publish my closest store, when they have done that in other emails. 

 

 

Home Depot kept it simple, but did include info on the $2500 limit, which was nice. 

 

 

This email from West Elm was really clear about the time frame and the stores where I could shop, including the names up top, then repeating them and providing the address, phone number and store hours for easy shopping planning!

 

 

Lands' End posted on their Facebook wall about the tax free weekend, but took some flak in the comments because clothing is not taxed in Massachusetts anyway, so people didn't see the point. But, accessories like backpacks are taxed, so for back to school shoppers, Lands' End could still be a worthwhile stop at the mall.

 

 

 

And last but not least, Texas Roadhouse, one of my favorite indulgences, sent an email offering a $5 discount so weary shoppers could take a break and have a delicious meal. 

 

Liz Lynch, senior marketing communications associate, e-Dialog