MURFREESBORO, Tenn. -
Local businesses in Murfreesboro are banding together to help each other thrive.
In a time where people have more choices than ever before on where to shop, local entrepreneurs are spreading the message to, "shop local."
Corey Williams opened Pa Bunk's on the square late last year.
He said not only does it keep historic downtown Murfreesboro vibrant it keeps valuable tax dollars in the community.
"You're supporting the local economy and the money stays here in town," he said, adding, "It can help provide money for schools or parks. The money stays here instead of going to a foreign country or another state."
Many Murfreesboro residents told Nashville's News 2 they enjoy spending time walking around on the city square and browsing at the area stores and boutiques.
"Murfreesboro has done a great job. Downtown has done a great job of revitalizing it and keeping it alive," resident Gretchen Johnson said.
Lindsey Garlin of Bella's Boutique added, "Downtown is the heart and soul of the city. Murfreesboro has the most beautiful square and it's hard not to want to be a part of this."
Garlin said Bella's Boutique, along with other nearby businesses embrace shopping locally and even have small signs encouraging customers to shop locally on their counters.
"I think that is really what America is about," shopper Michelle Motley said. "That's how everyone got an opportunity in the beginning. I think it's really wonderful to support them."
The Chamber of Commerce reports the percentage of outside money that comes in from non-residents in Rutherford County is among the highest in the state.
For more information on the city of Murfreesboro, visit the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce's Web site.
