Murphy, Texas (Oct 2, 2009) -
The economy may have rocked consumer spending and closed thousands of stores nationwide, but the citizens and economic development team of Murphy, Texas have a decidedly different take on the business climate. They've mounted an online petition to encourage that more of the nation's retail chains open stores in their community.

Murphy, perfectly centered in fast-growing Collin County, certainly has the buying power to back up its demands. With an average household income exceeding $112,000 and home value of $305,000, it's surprising that more national retailers haven't already staked claims there. Over 150,000 people live in more than 50,000 households within a 10 minute drive of Murphy's crossroads intersection at Murphy Road and the FM 544 continuation of Plano Parkway. Average daily traffic counts exceed 21,000 on the latter.

"When it comes to retail merchandise and services, Murphy and its surrounding communities remain underserved," said James Fisher, Murphy's City Manager. "Lowe's, Starbucks, Blockbuster, and Bank of America are among the national brands that figured it out early, but Murphy residents still have to drive too far for stores that others find just around the corner." The nearest malls, Collin Creek and Firewheel, are at the Murphy trade area's outermost reaches.

Ironically, Murphy's spectacular growth may be the reason that many retailers are just now giving it a hard look. With a growth rate that outstrips Collin County, it's loomed very suddenly on retailers' radar. With only about 600 residential lots still undeveloped, there's little doubt that Murphy has achieved critical mass.

Murphy residents agree, and have taken their case to the business marketplace with an online petition that also gives participants an opportunity to voice their retail preferences. To see and take the poll, visit www.murphywantsyou.com. Petition tallies will be posted online at the end of October and will be highlighted at retail trade shows, on the MEDC's web site, and in its other marketing communications.

Gunter Watson, President of Murphy's Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), says that its Board couldn't be more pleased. "We'll give strongest consideration and devote our best efforts to retailers that our residents want most." The MEDC leads a tight alliance of Murphy's citizens, municipal government, its Community Development Corporation, and Chamber of Commerce in promoting new business openings.

Murphy's online petition was conceived and executed by Ariamedia, a leader in interactive communications, branding, and strategy for the public sector. The firm also markets the annual Murphy Maize Days festival and is redesigning the city's website. More information is available at www.ariamedia.com.

For more information about Murphy, Texas contact Kristen Roberts, Assistant to the City Manager, Economic Development, at (972) 468-4006 or kroberts@murphytx.org

For more information about Ariamedia contact Ryan Thompson, CEO, at (214)382-2650 ext. 108 or rthompson@ariamedia.com