Cash mob

A cash mob is a pre-arranged gathering of people at a local business with the intention of making purchases and supporting that business. It is a form of flash mob organized to promote local businesses and stimulate the local economy. The idea is to bring a large group of customers to a specific store on a specific day and time, generating a sudden surge in revenue and positive publicity.

The event is typically organized through social media, email, or word-of-mouth, with participants agreeing to spend a minimum amount of money at the chosen business. The specific business is often kept secret until shortly before the event to maximize the element of surprise and excitement.

Cash mobs are intended to be a positive and uplifting experience for both the business owner and the participants. They aim to foster a sense of community, support local entrepreneurs, and raise awareness about the importance of shopping locally. The purchases made during a cash mob can provide a significant boost to the business's revenue, particularly if it is a small or struggling business. Furthermore, the event can generate valuable media coverage and attract new customers in the long term.

The concept of a cash mob is related to other movements focused on supporting local economies, such as the "Shop Local" campaign and the "3/50 Project," which encourages consumers to support three local businesses and spend $50 per month in their communities. While these movements focus on sustained support, cash mobs provide a concentrated, short-term injection of revenue and attention.