Rutherford County, TN - As the holiday season unfolds, Rutherford County stands out as a bustling hub for Christmas shopping, defying broader trends of declining brick-and-mortar retail establishments across the nation. Recently released data from “UpgradedPoints.com” highlights that Tennessee, as a whole, witnessed an 8.3% decline in brick-and-mortar retail stores per capita from 2011 to 2021. Despite this statewide trend, Murfreesboro, one of the top 20 fastest-growing cities in the country, remains an exception, experiencing strong growth in both commercial and residential construction.
Rutherford County’s resilience is evident in the data, with approximately 5,828 retail businesses in operation throuoghout the Metro Statistical Area. While retail may not have the largest number of employees in the county, they definitely have the highest number of storefront windows - making retail one of the largest industries within Rutherford County. The overall change in retail stores overall in the Nashville, Murfreesboro, Franklin MSA was PLUS 6% with 334 new retail stores opening between 2011 and 2021.
The thriving retail landscape plays a crucial role during the holiday season, with U.S. holiday spending estimated to reach nearly $1 trillion in 2023. Shoppers in Rutherford County are taking advantage of this festive atmosphere, purchasing gifts, food, and decorations while enjoying the steep discounts offered by retailers.
In contrast to the national average decline of -12.6% in brick-and-mortar retail, Tennessee’s slower decline of 8.3% reflects a more resilient state landscape. Rutherford County, with its robust economic activity, exemplifies the ability of thriving communities to weather larger retail trends. As residents engage in Christmas shopping, the county’s diverse retail offerings contribute significantly to the local economy, demonstrating the ongoing strength and vitality of Rutherford County in the face of evolving retail dynamics.
