Southern States opening larger store in Monroe

Southern States, a farm supply cooperative, is opening a "Rural America" store in Monroe, the company said.

The 12,000-square-foot store will be located in a former BI-LO supermarket at 1,620 East Roosevelt Boulevard. The company's current Southern States store at 420 Crow Street in Monroe will close, with the current staff transitioning to the new store.

The company says its new Rural America store will be four times bigger than the current Southern States store in Monroe. The Rural America stores are a new concept for Southern States.

"We will offer products in these new stores that we haven't had available in our other retail locations," said Southern States vice president Anne Clingenpeel, in a statement. "Besides a wider range of products, we will also offer a deeper selection within the individual product categories."

Here's what the company has to say about its new store: "Horse enthusiasts and small cattle operations will find everything they need, from feeds and animal health products to livestock handling equipment. Of course Southern States pet foods, outer wear from Carhartt and Berne, grills and barbecue supplies, seed, fertilizer and wild bird feed and feeders will all be available in the new facility.

This is the company's first 'Rural America' store, which aims to provide a one-stop shop for rural residents that don't necessarily farm full-time, but still enjoy the lifestyle that rural living provides. This can include tending to a vegetable garden or lawn, taking care of dogs and cats, or raising a few chickens in the backyard."

A grand opening for the store is scheduled for 10 a.m. August 29.

The company is also opening a new Rural America store in Rock Hill next year.