Mattoon, IL – Rural King is making a major investment in Central Illinois, announcing plans to spend $75 million on a new headquarters campus that will create jobs and strengthen the company’s long-standing presence in Coles County.
According to Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Rural King broke ground on a new Store Support Center Campus in Mattoon that will serve as the company’s headquarters for leadership and support functions, including merchandising, information technology, finance, operations, marketing, human resources and legal services.
State officials said the project will create 100 new full-time jobs while retaining 719 existing positions in Coles County.
“With its new expansion, Rural King is building on its storied legacy in Illinois by creating new jobs and investing in the community and region,” Pritzker said in a statement.
Founded in Mattoon in 1960, Rural King has grown into a major farm and home retailer operating in 18 states. By the end of 2026, the company expects to have more than 160 stores nationwide and employs more than 9,500 workers across the country.
Rural King Owner and Chairman Alex Melvin said the new campus is designed to support future growth while maintaining the company’s roots in Mattoon. Plans also include an event center that will be available for community use.
The expansion is receiving support through Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program. Additional infrastructure improvements are planned nearby, including roadway extensions and an upcoming $82 million reconstruction project at the Interstate 57 and Illinois Route 16 interchange.
State officials said the investment reflects broader efforts to encourage business growth in downstate Illinois while creating jobs and retaining existing employers.
As part of its agreement with Illinois, Rural King committed to the $75 million investment, the creation of 100 new jobs and the retention of 719 positions. The project is expected to further cement Mattoon’s role as the company’s operational hub for years to come.
