Rural King Tentatively Plans Store at Centre at Salisbury
Wicomico County, MD - Rural King may be coming to Salisbury. Local and state leaders say the farm and home store is tentatively planning a new location at the Centre of Salisbury.
The plans are not final. The store still depends on final agreements and the needed approvals, and no opening date has been set.
The news was shared in a joint announcement from Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano, Salisbury Mayor Randy Taylor, and the Maryland Department of Commerce. Leaders say the project could bring new jobs, more shopping choices, and new life to the property.
The talks started in May 2026 at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) convention in Las Vegas. Giordano and local economic development staff met there with people from Rural King to talk about opening a store in Wicomico County.
"This is exactly why we attend events like ICSC and actively pursue businesses that make sense for our community," said County Executive Julie Giordano. "While plans are still tentative, we are extremely encouraged by the progress being made. Economic development doesn't happen by sitting behind a desk waiting for businesses to come to us. It happens by building relationships, opening doors, and showing companies why Wicomico County is a great place to invest."
Rural King got its start in 1960 in Mattoon, Illinois. Today it is a family-owned company with more than 150 stores, and it calls itself "America's Farm and Home Store."
The store sells farm supplies, tools, hardware, and lawn and garden products. Shoppers can also find livestock and pet supplies, outdoor gear, clothing, and household items.
City leaders hope a Rural King could lead other businesses to invest in the former mall property. The mall has been a focus of efforts to bring it back for a long time.
"The possibility of bringing Rural King to Salisbury is exciting news for our city," said Mayor Randy Taylor. "Revitalizing commercial properties, attracting quality businesses, and creating opportunities for our residents remain important priorities. This potential investment demonstrates what can happen when city and county leaders work together with the business community to promote economic growth. We are optimistic about the discussions and look forward to seeing this opportunity move forward."
The state is also following the talks. The Maryland Department of Commerce says it wants to draw known businesses to Maryland towns, especially when they reuse buildings that are already there.
"Rural King's interest in Salisbury reflects the tremendous opportunities available on Maryland's Eastern Shore," said Carl Anderton from Maryland Department of Commerce. "The Moore Miller Administration is encouraged by the ongoing discussions and remain committed to supporting partnerships that bring new investment, jobs, and economic opportunities to communities throughout Maryland."
Giordano said the Rural King talks are one part of a larger county plan. That plan aims to bring in new businesses and help the local economy grow.
"For years, our residents have wanted to see something positive happen at the Salisbury Mall," Giordano added. "We heard those concerns, and collaboratively we have been actively working to attract businesses that will invest in our community. While there are still steps to be completed before anything is finalized, this is real progress and a direct result of our economic development efforts. Rural King would be a tremendous fit for Wicomico County, and we will continue working to help turn this opportunity into a reality."
Both Giordano and Taylor said they will keep working together to bring in businesses and fill empty commercial spaces around the area.
County and city leaders say more details will be shared as the talks move along. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
