In Fulton, Missouri lies a hidden gem, a meat-lover’s dream to say the least. Starting out as a small processing center, the Brinker family expanded their business, Central Missouri Meat and Sausage, into a retail store and food court. Filled with the aroma of smoked pork, tender beef and a large assortment of specialty sausages, this small business is making a big impact on the central Missouri meat market.
Co-owner Kenny Brinker says what makes them stand out from their competitors is their local approach and the fact that all the meat is processed and packaged on-site in their processing center. Since the beginning, the Brinkers have been looking for ways to continue expanding to eventually reach a larger market.
In August of 2015, Central Missouri Meat and Sausage received a $250,000 Value Added Producer Grant from USDA Rural Development to assist in the processing and marketing of pork from their family farm. This project helped support nearly 50 jobs and has allowed them to meet the demands of the area.
Their food court, which opened in December 2015, has helped them meet the bottom line of their business. The extensive menu has mouth-watering selections such as BBQ beef brisket sandwiches, premium steaks, pork ribs, and even bacon wrapped jalapeno dip.
As the Administration celebrates Small Business Week, USDA Rural Development is proud to help businesses such as Central Missouri Meat and Sausage to develop and thrive. As we move forward, we will continue to invest in rural businesses and operations in Missouri to meet the mission of this agency: to help improve the economy and quality of life in Rural America. #DreamSmallBiz
