News

Retailers take action against Amazon in Tennessee

May 10, 2011

According to Times Free Press, a coalition of  big box retailers, along with smaller retail businesses participated in a 30-second television ad that aired yesterday in Tennessee condemning a state sales-tax collection exemption for Amazon.com.

Virginia-based Alliance for Main Street Fairness, whose members include giants such as Wal-Mart and small businesses such as Fish Mania in Chattanooga, Tenn., is trying to build public support for legislation against striking deals with the online retail giant.

The organization charges that the tax exemption hurts other retailers within the state, resulting in lost profits and low employment.

The state charges a 7 percent sales tax on most items, and local governments can add up to an additional 2.75 percent on top of that.

No action has been taken on the bill.