Minnesota Rural Grocery Survey

The purpose of issuing the 2015 Rural Grocery Survey was to better understand the rural grocery environment and needs in Greater Minnesota. The results of this survey will inform the greater research community and allow this community to offer relevant and useful support to businesses that are integral to a thriving rural landscape. Once rural grocery stores close, they are difficult to reopen. At the same time, statements such as those made in the 2014 Minnesota Food Charter show an increased interest among the research community to ensure healthy food access across the state. A research assistant is needed to analyze and develop a report on the results of a completed survey of rural grocery stores in Minnesota. The Regional Partnerships currently support rural grocery stores through research, outreach, and assistance, but a goal for the results of this survey is to even further enhance rural grocery access to assistance and resources.