#United States #Community Events #Mattoon #Rural King #RK Foundation

Rural King Marks 65 Years of Dedication to Rural Communities

This August, Rural King, the largest privately owned farm and home retailer in the United States, proudly commemorates its 65th anniversary of service to rural communities across America. With a legacy that began in 1960, Rural King has grown from a small single store into a beloved retailer with over 140 locations in 14 states. The anniversary celebration kicks off on August 7 and runs through August 20, featuring a plethora of exciting giveaways, special promotions, and community events.

A Journey Through Time

Founded by farmers Kermit Speer and Keith Beaird in Mattoon, Illinois, Rural King was born out of a desire to support local agricultural communities that struggled to find essential supplies. The vision was clear: to provide high-quality products at unbeatable prices while fostering a welcoming shopping environment that starts with complimentary popcorn and coffee for every shopper. This dedication to customer service remains a cornerstone of Rural King today.

Anniversary Celebrations

To mark this significant milestone, Rural King is offering a two-week extravaganza of in-store events and promotions. Customers can look forward to complimentary hot dogs served every Saturday, bucket sales on weekends, exciting sweepstakes, and special rewards for members of the RK Rewards program.

Alex Melvin, owner and chairman of Rural King, emphasizes the importance of this anniversary, stating, "My great-uncle Kermit and his partner Keith started Rural King with a passion to serve a great agricultural community that lacked access to the supplies they needed to run their family farms." He continues, "I'm blessed to carry on the legacy of this great company, which supports the rural lifestyle, and I am thankful for our associates and their hard work and dedication to serving their customers every day."

A Trusted Partner in Rural Life

Rural King's commitment to rural communities goes beyond just retail. The company offers an extensive product range, including trusted brands like Carhartt, Milwaukee Tool, Diamond Pet Foods, and more. From livestock feed to home goods, Rural King provides everything farmers and families need to thrive.

In recent years, Rural King has expanded into more than 20 new communities, reflecting both the loyalty of its customers and the diligence of its associates. Steve Barbarick, president and CEO, stated, "We're committed to growing in the right way by investing in our people and creating a great customer experience."

Community Engagement and Support

Beyond retail, the company invests heavily in community outreach through the RK Foundation for Rural America. The foundation collaborates with organizations like 4-H and Habitat for Humanity, supporting their initiatives and giving back to the community in meaningful ways. Additionally, the foundation funds the Rural King Scholarship Program to assist associates and their families with college expenses, contributing over $1 million to Christian organizations nationwide in just five years.

As the 65th anniversary draws near, Rural King looks ahead with a focus on enhancing the customer experience. The company is investing in mobile and self-checkout solutions and expanding its e-commerce capabilities.

Join the Celebration

In summary, Rural King's 65th-anniversary celebration is not just a commemoration of its past but a testament to its ongoing commitment to rural communities. From generous giveaways to community events from August 7 to 20, Rural King invites everyone to be part of this joyous occasion. For more information on events, sweepstakes, and exclusive promotions, visit ruralking.com.

As Rural King continues to thrive and grow, its roots remain steadfast in the communities it serves, making it a cornerstone of rural life across America.