Retailers worry over Phila. sales tax increase

Mayor Michael Nutter (photo) said publicly the increase would not make a \”material difference.\”

But Ken Foster, owner of Foster’s Homeware in Old City, said the increase was \”another slap in the face\” for businesses weathering the recession. Business this year has been \”soft,\” Foster said. In 14 years, he’s \”never seen it this bad.\”

On Thursday, shoppers in his store took notice of the increased tax.

\”Virtually every customer today has commented on it. The city customer is concerned about it, but I’m also concerned that suburban customers will think twice about coming in,\” Foster said. \”It’s definitely the talk.\”