Prince George, B.C. – Don’t be alarmed if you see a “mob” of people inside Books & Company later today.

A “cash mob,” or organized spending spree, has been scheduled to take place there from 10am to 2pm.

It’s an idea that first took hold in the United States a couple of years ago with an eye to providing a financial lift to small businesses.

Participants are usually instructed via social media to spend at least $20 at the business during the event.

The idea to bring it here was hatched by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce and Hell Yeah Prince George.

Chamber CEO Christie Ray says Books and Company was chosen from a list of nominees last month.

“We had 19 nominations come through for this first cash mob, and we’re hoping when we do it next month we will get even more,” she says. “Once word starts going around that we’re doing this innovative idea, people will hopefully jump on board and we’ll see more nominations come through.”

Ray says they plan to hold one mob per month over the next three months, and depending on how successful they are, bring them back later this year.

“Depending on the success of the campaign we may do it again in the lead up to the Christmas season.”

She adds she’s not sure what to expect today.

“To tell you the truth, we have no idea what to anticipate. We hope everyone in the community will jump on board and get behind this. I’ve talked a number of people who intend to bring their whole families and give each of their kids $20 to spend at Books and Company. It’ll be interesting to see what the result is.