A program dedicated to showcasing Kentucky food could be headed to a Walmart near you. Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer says the world's largest retailer has agreed to stock Kentucky Proud shelves in some of its Bluegrass State stores, which would contain food and other products made in the commonwealth.
Comer told WKU Public Radio the move is a reaction to the increasing number of Kentuckians who say they want to support local farmers and vendors. Some Houchens and Kroger stores in the commonwealth already stock Kentucky Proud products.
"It's just amazing as I travel the state to hear people say, 'I buy everything I can from Kentucky Proud because I want to know where my food comes from, I want to know the history of my food, and I want to support farm familes,'" said Comer.
Comer wouldn't say exactly how many Walmart stores in the state would stock Kentucky Proud items, or where those stores would be located. The Monroe County native said his office has been working with Walmart since January to flesh out the details of the partnership, with an announcement coming "shortly."
"We're working with the producers now to where they can increase production, because when you start dealing with companies the size of Walmart, you have to be able to back your production up. They don't mess around," said Comer.
