Kansas State University

Rural Grocery Tool Kit

This resource library or “tool kit” is designed to provide resources to two primary audiences: those who are considering establishing a grocery store; and existing rural grocery store owners.

For those considering establishing a rural grocery store:

Below are five “steps” for planning and establishing a new store in a community. Each step contains information and resources for elements important to establishing a rural grocery. The resources below are best reviewed BEFORE making the commitment to launch a store. The creators of the Tool Kit suggest reviewing the process and making a plan first, and then using these links to reference resources and information as you develop the store.  

Tools and resources for existing rural grocery store owners:

Resources for existing stores are organized in the following six key business categories. By clicking on the button below, you will find a listing of resources for improving all facets of operating a rural grocery.

The Rural Grocery Tool Kit was developed by:
Daniel Kahl, KSU Center for Engagement and Community Development, Manhattan, KS
Alexis Wingerson, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
Jon Bailey, Center for Rural Affairs, Lyons, KS
Julie Mettenburg, Kansas Rural Center, Whiting, KS
Cole Cottin, Kansas Rural Center, Whiting, KS
Natalie Fullerton, Kansas Rural Center, Whiting, KS
Sarah Green, Independent Writer and Editor, Wichita, KS
Cheryl Burkhart Kriesel, University of Nebraska Extension, Scottsbluff, NE
Leslie Manning, KSRE River Valley District Extension, Washington, KS
Dan O’Brien, Ag. Economist, KSRE NW Area, Colby, KS
Jan Steen, KSRE Reno County, Hutchinson, KS
Jared Wasinger, Website Development, Center for Engagement and Community Development, Manhattan, KS