(KIWA Staff Photo)
Hull, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — Old Parlor Meat Company — the family-run business that began inside a converted dairy parlor — is preparing to open its second retail location in Sioux County.
The company, owned by Curt and Emily Van Grouw, will hold a soft opening Saturday, August 1st, from 9 a.m. to noon at 1126 Main Street in Hull. The event will feature free samples and a gift-card giveaway.
From Dairy Parlor to Retail Business
Old Parlor began in 2020 and officially started processing animals for area farmers in early 2021. Its custom-exempt facility southeast of Rock Valley handles beef, pork, lamb, and goat.
Curt Van Grouw says retail wasn’t part of the original plan.
The company’s name comes from the building where its processing operation began.
As demand grew, Old Parlor moved its retail operation into a storefront at 1507 Main Street in Rock Valley last year.
An Unexpected Opportunity in Hull
Van Grouw says retail allows Old Parlor to serve customers who may not purchase whole or half animals through its processing operation.
The Hull expansion developed after Siouxland Strength owner Nate Boer prepared to move his gym into a new building.
The Hull store will carry beef supplied through Upper Iowa Beef and pork from a local cooperative of area farmers. Customers will also find chicken, seafood, bison, and other meat products. Steaks are individually vacuum-packed, with both fresh and frozen options available.
Growing as a Family
The expansion has prompted Old Parlor to add part-time employees. Van Grouw says he and Emily have worked to balance business growth with family life.
Saturday’s soft opening will include samples of Old Parlor’s in-house brats and several barbecue sauces. Customers may also enter a gift-card giveaway.
Van Grouw says the company has no immediate plans for another expansion but will remain open to future opportunities.
