Main street district next to farm

Many people today are willing to drive many miles to get what they want. Research shows that communities differ in their ability to attract customers. Why do some communities appeal to consumers more than others?

ISU Extension offers the Reciprocity series, five publications that summarize researching findings on the rural communities and the retail marketplace. Each provides valuable insights for small business owners and others seeking to understand economic factors in rural towns.

1. Identifying Attitudes

2. Rural Retailers' Perceptions

3. Rural Consumers' Perceptions

4. Attracting Customers to Towns

5. Community Values and Marketing Strategies


State office; Meridith 6/19/2007