In the last few years, Rocky Mount has attracted various businesses to the area that have thrived in our tight-knit community. Pit-Stop Shoppe in Westridge and Tastebuds Popcorn in Nashville are owned by some of RMA’s very own, and are both prime examples of the potential for success. With the future addition of the Brewmill, Rocky Mount’s growing population will be the perfect environment for businesses to thrive. As Rocky Mount attracts the attention of businesses wanting to capitalize, we have our fingers crossed for the following attractions!

1. Panera Bread– Despite their somewhat steep prices, Panera is definitely a business with a niche. Their creative and healthy salads, soups, and sandwiches set this restaurant apart from many fast food joints. When asked about what the best part of Panera is, junior Suzanna Mosley said, “The chicken Caesar salad is the best thing on the menu”. Other popular choices range from their famous mac and cheese to kale and quinoa salads.
2. Dick’s Sporting Goods– This sport-lover’s Mecca would most likely thrive despite competition from Dunham’s Sporting Goods in the mall. No matter what sports equipment or active attire you need, from Nike to The North Face, there is a good chance that Dick’s will have it.
3. Moe’s Southwest Grill– This Tex-Mex quick stop is a popular alternative to, the equally well-known, Chipotle. Along with the typical choices of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, Moe’s also offers a vegetarian option which adds to their uniqueness. You can’t go wrong at this chain, especially when you add a side of their classic queso.
4. Free-Standing Starbucks– Even though Rocky Mount has a Starbucks inside Target, a free-standing one would do us well. The menu in Target is somewhat limited and even though it can satisfy your caffeine fix, it doesn’t have the same “hipster” atmosphere that Starbucks has so effectively developed in its café style stand-alone.
5. Tupelo Honey Café– This institution may not be familiar to all but it is truly an interesting restaurant. With locations scattered across North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia, it is no surprise that this institution’s cuisine is based around southern eats with a twist. The nearest location to Rocky Mount is nestled in Cameron Village in Raleigh and while it is worth the drive, it would certainly be nice to have one closer to home. With dishes ranging from sweet potato pancakes and brunch to a “Grateful Dead” black bean burger at lunch, there is something for both picky eaters and those that are more adventurous.
6. Whole Foods– This worldly grocery store would be a great addition to the Rocky Mount community. Its brand inspires healthy lifestyles that stem from what its customers put into their bodies. Whole Foods also consists of a salad bar and hot food bar which makes it easy to get a real meal on the go and their in-store bakery, full of many different treats, is sure to cater to any sweet tooth.
7. Drive- in Movie Theatre– A nostalgic activity, drive- in movie theaters had their peak in popularity back in the 50’s and 60’s but their appeal could easily make a comeback given the chance. This fun outing is great for families and just hanging out with friends. With a wide range of movies, this could be a great way to attract customers of all ages.
8. Apple Store– These days, it is difficult to find anyone, especially of our generation, that hasn’t been touched by the Apple bug. If you have an iPhone, or any piece of hardware from Apple however, you know how easy it is to crack it or have some kind of software issue. This can be especially frustrating when the nearest Apple store is in Raleigh. With Rocky Mount’s Best Buy closing its doors back in 2012, an electronic store shaped void has been left in its place and Apple fits perfectly.
9. Urban Outfitters– This trendy and all-inclusive store has everything from apparel to home décor. Featuring mainly bohemian and current styles, Urban Outfitters is a boutique style store that carries a wide assortment of men’s and women’s brands from coast to coast. They are also well-known for their unique vinyl record collection consisting of anything you could imagine such as Fleetwood Mac, the Beatles, Tupac, and Vampire Weekend just to name a few. This store is always great for gifts because you are guaranteed to find something that special person doesn’t already have.
10. Tropical Smoothie Café– This fresh fast food chain makes eating your fruits and vegetables easy. Their menu is filled with colorful named smoothies like “Blimey Limey” and “Sunrise Sunset” and they taste as great as they sound. You can also add in special ingredients like kale and spinach and supplements with protein or vitamins. Their menu also offers wraps and salad bowls which extend their goal of providing healthy food that also tastes great.