A department store in central Japan is hoping to fight a slowdown in the wake of a tax hike.

Japan’s sales tax was raised three percent on April 1, hitting retailers across the country.

Sales slumped at Matsuzakaya department store in April and May.

Workers say they are hoping to fight back during Japan’s summer gift season.

Ochugen are gift boxes of food and beverages sent to friends and associates in mid-July.

100 staff gathered for a motivational meeting this morning.

Matsuzakaya’s store manager says they are aiming to sell about 28 million dollars worth of gifts, a million dollars more than last year.