For release: Feb. 4, 2013
Editorial contact:
Dr. Tim Graeff, 615-898-5124 or tim.graeff@mtsu.edu
Midstate
consumers more upbeat about economy, but …
MURFREESBORO — Local
consumers have become more optimistic about the future of the U.S. economy, according
to a new three-county survey by Middle Tennessee State University.
The Office of Consumer Research at MTSU reported that after
a decline in their outlook at the end of 2012, the overall consumer outlook
index rose to 144 from 106 in November. The current poll of 334 randomly
selected adult residents of Davidson, Rutherford and Williamson counties was
conducted by phone on the evenings of Jan. 29-31.
Tim Graeff, director of the Office of Consumer Research,
said the more positive perspective from consumers was fueled by increasingly
more positive views of the current economy, greater expectations for the future
of the economy and a growing sense that now is a good time to make large
purchases.
He noted, however, that a concern among retailers and businesses
is whether or not this more positive outlook on the economy will lead to
increased consumer spending.
“Even though consumers have a more favorable view of the
future of the economy their spending might not necessarily increase,” Graeff
said. “Continued concerns about the job market and the negative effects of
increasing taxes might dampen the effects of a positive outlook on consumers’
desire and ability to spend money.”
Higher taxes also are giving consumers concerns about their
ability to save money now and in the future, Graeff said.
The full survey
results are attached in Microsoft Word and pdf formats.
For more information, contact Graeff at 615-898-5124 or
Tim.Graeff@mtsu.edu.
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