Rural King to Invest in New Aviation Hangar at Coles County Memorial Airport

Architectural Partners - Architectural Expressions, LLP. Photo submitted by Rural King

For Immediate Release – March 20, 2025

Mattoon, IL – Rural King is investing in the development of a new private aviation hangar in partnership with Coles County Memorial Airport (MTO). This new hangar will allow more efficient travel for associates, while enhancing the airport’s infrastructure.

By the end of 2025, Rural King will have 150 locations across 17 states, supported by 9,000 associates. For over 18 years, the company has had aviation, utilized to support retail operations, based at the Coles County Memorial Airport. With their significant growth, additional space is needed to centralize these operations.

The new hangar will enable Rural King associates to travel more frequently from Coles County, allowing more time at home, reinforcing the company’s commitment to family.

“The success of our business relies upon our Mattoon team working closely with our retail and distribution locations, and our vendor partners,” said Owner and Chairman Alex Melvin. “We want our teams in the field, but we also want to make sure they get home as safely and quickly as possible.”

In addition to benefiting Rural King associates, the new hangar will have a positive impact on the airport, promoting opportunities for growth and development.

Airport Manager Andrew Fearn stated, “Coles County Memorial Airport and our Airport Authority Board is excited to enter into this agreement with Rural King. We see great potential in this opportunity to showcase the airport as a true gateway to Coles County and an asset to the continued economic impact and growth in the area. We want to highlight our role as team players, working together to bring new opportunities to our communities.”

“Building a new hangar is more than just expanding our current space,” added Melvin. “It’s about continued investment in the infrastructure of our home region, a place our company has called home for nearly 65 years.”

This project highlights Rural King’s ongoing commitment to supporting associates, customers, and the development of our home region.