Rugby Store Spotlight

At Gooseneck Implement, every location has its unique flavor, but our Rugby store stands out in ways that make it truly special. Nestled in the geographical center of North America, Rugby isn’t just a store – it’s a community hub, a second home for our team members, and a beacon of support for local farmers and ranchers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of our Rugby store is the deep-rooted connections among our team members. The Rugby team boasts several family combinations working together, including four father-son duos, two brothers, a mother-son pair, and even a grandfather-grandson team. These familial bonds create a unique atmosphere of trust and camaraderie that resonates throughout the store. This tight-knit dynamic extends to our customers, fostering a sense of familiarity and community that is hard to find elsewhere.

Rugby’s customer base is as diverse as the land they work on. From potato farmers to cattle ranchers, the range of agricultural pursuits is vast. The geographical diversity also plays a role, with small grains dominating the north and row crops prevalent in the south. This variety means that our team must be adept at meeting a wide array of needs, from advanced technology to more traditional methods favored by others. This diversity is a testament to Rugby’s ability to adapt and cater to every customer, no matter their specialization.

The store is at the forefront of technology adoption within Gooseneck. With a focus on RTK networks and precision agriculture, our team supports early adopters in the farming community. This dedication to cutting-edge technology ensures that our customers have access to the latest advancements, helping them achieve greater efficiency and productivity. Our commitment is continuous education and staying ahead in the tech game is a cornerstone of our service.

The Rugby store is home to a core group of dedicated team members who have been with us for over a decade, some for more than 15 years. Notably, Kirby Harmel, our Sales Representative, has been part of the team since 1995. Shane Forness and David Guse both joined in 1999. This experienced cohort is complemented by an influx of young talent, particularly through participation in JD Tech programs. These initiatives bring fresh perspectives and new skills to our team, ensuring we remain dynamic and forward-thinking.

The longevity of our team members since Gooseneck purchased Rugby in 2007 speaks volumes about the store culture. Celebrating 17 years together, the long-term employees have been pivotal to the success. Their loyalty and commitment have helped build strong relationships with the diverse and loyal customer base, ensuring we provide top-notch service year after year.

One of the most heartwarming examples of our team’s unity and support involves one of our team members, a second-year tech student, who was involved in a car accident. During his recovery, the Rugby team rallied around him, ensuring that his work and customers were taken care of while allowing him to focus on his recovery. This kind of support isn’t just exceptional; it’s the embodiment of our core values of Genuine Passion and Genuine Gratitude.

Our Rugby team members consistently express appreciation for their roles and the supportive environment we cultivate – making Rugby more than just a place of business. It’s a community where strong family ties, diverse agricultural expertise, technological innovation, and a supportive atmosphere come together to create something truly special. We are proud of our Rugby team and look forward to continuing to serve and grow with our local community.