It's That Time of Year Again.
Submit your nominations today!
The Retailers Association of Massachusetts Awards of Excellence (RAMAEs) honor small and large retailers and restaurants, identifying hidden gems from all corners of the Commonwealth.
You could be one of this year's recipients. Submit a nomination for your business. Tell us what makes your business special.
As an expert, you can also help us identify additional businesses who deserve to be recognized for their resilience, innovation, customer service or going above and beyond to make the retail and dining experience memorable.
There is no limit to the number of businesses you can nominate. So CLICK HERE to nominate your business and all those you love as well. There are so many incredible retail stores and restaurants in MA who could be deserving of this recognition. Help us find our 2026 winners!
You do not need to be a RAM member to nominate or to win.
The winners will be celebrated at a luncheon on November 18 in Waltham, and all RAM members are invited to attend!
The annual Sales Tax Holiday Weekend is August 8 & 9, 2026.
The sales tax exemption applies for those two days to any retail purchase made in the Commonwealth, both in-store and online, of $2,500 or less, with certain exceptions. While the rules of the holiday weekend remain unchanged, members are encouraged to review these helpful FAQs from the MA Department of Revenue (DOR).
For more information, the specific rules governing the Sales Tax Holiday can be found in the DOR regulation, 830 CMR 64H.1.8: Sales Tax Holiday
Haitian and Syrian TPS Update
The Executive Office of Labor & Workforce Development and the Office of Refugees and Immigrants recently announced two updates regarding Haitian and Syrian TPS holders in Massachusetts.
First, work authorization for Haitian and Syrian TPS holders remains in place and will continue until the Supreme Court sends a certified copy of its judgment to the lower court and the federal administration issues implementation guidance. The E-Verify system now lists July 24, 2026 as a placeholder date for termination of employment authorization before the Supreme Court decision. Please continue to monitor the E-Verify website, as we expect the date will change again.
Second, the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants has launched a “HelpDesk” to assist current and former TPS holders, and those who previously applied for TPS, with access to immigration counsel. Individuals can assess their eligibility to receive free immigration legal assistance from the Immigration Legal Helpdesk by completing this form - https://forms.office.com/g/tYzYHCE0Yi. If determined eligible, individuals will receive a link to schedule a consultation with an immigration lawyer. If determined ineligible, individuals will receive a list of immigration assistance resources. Members with any questions, may contact the Office of Refugees and Immigrants at [email protected].
