Marketing plan set for Cannon

Neal Appelbaum and Ron Fryar

Cannon County boasts around 14,000 residents in its hill country, but with a slightly lower level in populace compared to most Tennessee counties, it breaks barriers in its authenticity.

With a close proximity of 19 miles to neighboring Murfreesboro, Tenn. and other cities such as McMinnville, Manchester and Smithville, Cannon County understands its identity and is launching a destination marketing campaign for the fall and upcoming spring season.

When it comes to the benefits of visiting the area, Cannon County Chamber of Commerce President Ron Fryar says the county offers a respite to anyone from out of town.

"It offers a day trip where you can enjoy the mountains and scenery. It's a good short trip into Cannon County from most Middle Tennessee areas and it's like going back to a pleasant and serene time while less hectic," Fryar added.
Starting in September, the Cannon County Chamber of Commerce will unveil a new tourism campaign focusing on their establishments, attractions and commerce geared toward day-trippers in the Middle Tennessee area.

Arts Center of Cannon County Executive Director Neal Appelbaum echoes Fryar and says, "I think it's an opportunity to step back to a slower pace."

"Where most businesses are privately owned, we are not a town full of corporate chain stores. You can buy art and one of a kind antiques and dine at one of our local

restaurants," Appelbaum stated.
"People here go back to the land and the locals are really connected to the sense of place. They love their town," he said regarding the genuineness of Cannon County and its people.
With a mix of food destinations and attractions such as Goodness Gracious at The Mill and The Blue Porch, the arts culture is also alive and well at The Arts Center of Cannon County. Other entertainment attractions include Short Mountain Distillery and The Moonlite Drive In.

Corresponding with dining and entertainment choices, Woodbury also offers a myriad of shopping options located around the historic town square. Shops such as The Old Feed Store and Antiques and More offer visitors unique items that are distinct in character.

In addition to the numerous attractions, Cannon County does have their sights set on the business sector as well.

Each day, 70 percent of the workforce commutes out of town. With a talented work force, the Cannon County Chamber of Commerce would also like to attract other businesses to help keep these commuters within county lines.

Within the same regard, the area is a prime candidate for multiple family housing developers.

At the current time, the presence of market rate rental apartments is nonexistent. In turn, there is a very tight supply of single-family homes inside the city limits. The county is seeking developers to build an attractive apartment complex with studios for young and older singles.

Along with this campaign, the Cannon County Chamber of Commerce will also unveil a new website in the following weeks to correspond with their marketing efforts. For future updates and information on Cannon County, visit cannontn.com.