MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP/WMOT) — A new survey says Middle Tennessee consumers are showing some confidence in the economy for the first time since 2008.
Middle Tennessee State University's Office of Consumer Research says mid-state consumer outlook has been gloomy since the economic downturn began. MTSU marketing professor Tim Graeff says consumer confidence began to rise again this spring, jumping from an index score of 144 to 193.
“They seem to have a little more positive view of the job market and the future job market. They’re a bit more confident and comfortable with their own personal financial situation and they expect it will improve in the next 12 months.”
Graeff says consumers are not only more optimistic, but are indicating they’re ready to begin making big purchases again.
Middle Tennesseans remain less enthusiastic about the national economy.
The survey of 355 randomly selected adults in Davidson, Rutherford and Williamson counties was conducted April 16 to April 18.