SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – For many on a hunt to save money for back to school, it’s about a back-to-school vacation.
Of all the weekends of summer, this weekend can mean a big boost to the Sevier County economy as families travel for a good time and back-to-school deals. The weekend is an economic boost to Sevierville’s economy with people from out-of-state coming to save money.
“We came because it’s we’re getting ready for school. I think everybody’s here getting ready for school,” said Maddie Preston, visiting from Kentucky. “People from our hometown had already known and they said, ‘oh, you’re going to go during the tax-free sales.’”
With more than 100 stores, Tanger Outlets is the place to find that bargain with up to 60% off bargains. For the economy, it’s not just what they spend here, but everywhere else.
“We went to Dollywood, Splash Country, the go-karts. And [Friday], we’re out shopping before we head home,” said Jennifer Bright from Alabama.
It brings a nearly 20% boost to every reporting sector of the local economy from hotels to attractions and restaurants.
“The increase in spending that happens during tax-free weekend is great for our community. It’s not just the retailers that see benefits from that. You also see an increase in spending at restaurants because people are eating while they’re here. You see an increase in lodging spending because people are coming here and they’re staying for tax-free weekend,” said Amanda Marr with the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce.
Tanger planned for the busy weekend with so many people heading into the center to find that deal.
“We have so many retailers that are opening early, and they have lots of their clothing and back-to-school items, 40-50% off, plus you’re going to save that tax on many of your favorite items. So you’re really going to get great deals as you head back to school,” Allie French with Tanger Outlets.
For the shoppers, with the costs going up, every dollar counts.
“Honestly, it means so much. We all work so hard for our money, so the littlest bit, it’s not a lot that you’re saving, but even that littlest bit means a lot to everybody,” said Preston.
Tax-free weekend lasts through Sunday.
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