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City officials have entered a three‑year partnership with Alabama‑based Retail Strategies LLC to help attract new retail and restaurant development to Mount Vernon. The contract, signed Jan. 19, costs $45,000 per year and marks a more proactive approach to filling long‑standing gaps in the city’s retail mix.
Safety‑Service Director Tanner Salyers said the move responds to residents’ concerns about limited shopping and dining options. While business growth is ultimately market‑driven, he said the city wants to ensure Mount Vernon is being actively marketed to companies looking to expand.
Retail Strategies will analyze consumer spending, identify areas where the city is losing business to surrounding counties, and connect interested retailers with local property owners. A 2023 study commissioned by the Area Development Foundation found Knox County loses an estimated $3.67 billion annually to other counties due to limited local retail and commercial services.
Mayor Matt Starr said the partnership supports Mount Vernon’s long‑term goal of strengthening quality‑of‑life amenities for residents. Retail Strategies will also train local development partners so the community can continue recruitment efforts after the contract ends.
City leaders emphasized that this work complements—not duplicates—the Area Development Foundation’s focus on recruiting major employers. Retail Strategies will instead target everyday retail and dining options that help round out the city’s appeal to new residents and workers.
