LANCASTER, OH — September 9, 2025 — After years of speculation, Rural King has officially confirmed its plans to open a store in Lancaster, bringing the popular farm supply retailer to River Valley Mall.
The company is finalizing agreements with the mall and has already cleared major hurdles, including a series of successful zoning approvals. Rural King will take over the former Elder-Beerman department store, a move consistent with the retailer’s strategy of repurposing vacant anchor spaces in malls nationwide.
According to filings, the company is set to acquire the Elder-Beerman parcel and has received approval to control part of the parking lot, a section of River Valley Drive, and designated space for large outdoor merchandise displays.
No official opening date has been announced, but anticipation is growing among local shoppers. The development is seen as a potential boost for River Valley Mall, which has struggled in recent years.
Insider speculation also suggests Rural King may eventually purchase the entire mall, renovate the property, and take over leasing responsibilities for other tenants — a move that could signal a major turnaround for the shopping center. This is similar to the Chillicothe location where Rural King purchased the former Kmart store, renovated it, leased out two store fronts in the main building and then created three outlots for two restaurants and a car wash.
