Convenience complex to open on Highway 67 By-pass

Business Today

POPLAR BLUFF -- Rankin Heartland X'press, a new convenience store, gas and diesel complex is expected to be the first commercial business to open along the new Highway 67 By-pass.

The ground has been graded, construction is under way and the store should open by Memorial Day.

The business, which will be located at the northeast corner of the junction of the by-pass and Route M, is projected to cost $1.15 million. It is owned by Tom and Mickey Rankin and J.R. and Marla Rankin.

Tom Rankin Construction Co. is the builder. B.P. Amoco Fuels will be distributed to the site by White Oil Co. in Poplar Bluff.

Rankin Heartland X'press will have 13 gas and diesel lanes and a 5,500-square-foot convenience store that will house a grocery store and a quick service restaurant.

The business, which will be open 24 hours, seven days a week, will be managed by J.R. and Marla Rankin. The construction cost is being funded by the U.S. Small Business Association and First Midwest Bank. An SBA guarantee loan is funding $445,000.

Rankin Heartland X'press is expected to employ 12 people.