Sidewalk Sales to Return Sept. 10

Sidewalk sales are coming back to Barrington on Sept. 10.

About two dozen members of the Barrington Business Association made that decision at their monthly meeting Tuesday night in TD Bank on County Road. 

The joint sales effort is the first major decision made by the business owners and operators, who formed the association officially in April after a feeling-out meeting in March.

“We need to work and advertise together to bring people into town,” said Lois Coppolino of .

Bringing back the sidewalk sales seemed to be the most popular event discussed by the members of the association. It will not be without its obstacles, though, everyone seemed to agree.

“The biggest challenge is not having a downtown,” said Holly Smith of and the principal coordinator of the business association.

Another challenge will be marketing the sidewalk sales. How to promote the day occupied about half of the one-hour meeting. Using web-based ads or print media or social media all were tossed about.

Ultimately, preparing for the sidewalk sales was turned over to the special events and marketing/membership committees.

Whatever the outcome of that joint effort, said Steve Primiano of Custom Window Treatments, sidewalk sales “will be an opportunity to put a face on the business association” while benefitting the individual merchants as well.

Several other members tossed out ideas for other promotions, including one as early as Memorial Day. But having a sidewalk sale got the nod for now.

“I think we need to start small,” said Smith. “Don’t try to do too much too soon.” 

Dues for the association are $52 a year or $1 a week. Smith collected several checks at the meeting, which will go into the group’s newly opened account, she said.

The business association's next meeting is June 14 at at 47 Maple Ave.