Kalona’s Sole Full-Service Grocery Store, JW’s Foods, Seeks New Ownership Amidst Owners’ Ministry Transition
The owners of JW's Foods, the only full-service grocery store in Kalona, Iowa, are actively seeking a buyer as they plan to transition into full-time ministry. The 53-year-old family-owned business employs between 20 and 25 people, and its potential closure…
Cedar Rapids Waterloo Iowa City & Dubuque, IA, November 8, 2026 — Kalona, Iowa – JW’s Foods, the only establishment offering full-service grocery options in Kalona, Iowa, is currently on the market as its long-time owners prepare to dedicate themselves to full-time ministry. The family-owned business has been a fixture in the community for 53 years.
The owners’ decision to sell the store comes as they pursue a transition into ministry work. The business, which has been operated by the same family for over five decades, provides employment for a staff of between 20 and 25 individuals.
Should a buyer not be found, the potential closure of JW’s Foods would significantly impact local residents. Kalona’s approximately 2,500 residents would lose their convenient source for groceries, necessitating travel to Iowa City. This journey is estimated to take at least 20 minutes, presenting a considerable inconvenience for daily shopping needs.
The owners have stated they are actively seeking a buyer to ensure continued local access to grocery services. The status of negotiations or potential buyers was not immediately available. The transition plan hinges on the successful transfer of ownership to new operators.
Further details regarding the sale process or the specific timeline for the owners’ transition into ministry were not provided. The future of local grocery access in Kalona remains dependent on the outcome of the sale.
Story summarized from the original created by Jocelyn Peshia on www.kcrg.com, see more information here.
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