Custom Meat Processor C&K Smoke House to Open in Russell

A new custom meat processing business, C&K Smoke House, is opening its doors in Russell, Minnesota, on Tuesday, bringing new life to a formerly vacant building.

The business, owned by Corey and Kay Johnson, is located in the former Russell Mini Mart on Old Highway 23, which had been empty since 2019.

Corey Johnson, who has been processing wild game at home for 13 years, saw the opportunity to turn his hobby into a formal business.

“I had been doing wild game myself, out of my house, for 13 years,” Johnson said. The name of the business, C&K Smoke House, is a nod to the owners’ initials.

Johnson continued working as a diesel mechanic while transforming the Mini Mart into a custom meat processing facility, which he plans to run part-time.

“We renovated the inside of the building, installing food-grade equipment. We did all the work ourselves,” said Johnson.

He and his wife began the renovations back in May, and after months of work, the business passed its final inspection.

“I’m excited about it,” Johnson shared, adding that locals have shown interest and support for the venture. “People are stopping in, and they think it’s pretty cool what I’m doing.”

C&K Smoke House will primarily focus on processing wild game, but it is also licensed to handle pork and beef.

“My main line of processing will be wild game,” Johnson said, noting that the business will not sell meat products but will process meat for customers.

They will also offer smoked pork butts, chicken, turkey, as well as make summer sausage, jerky, and snack sticks.

The new business has already garnered interest from potential customers.

“I’ve got people that want me to do stuff already,” Johnson said, confident that C&K Smoke House will be well-received in the community.

Curious about custom meat processors like C&K Smoke House? Visit our homepage for insights into local meat processing and smoked meat offerings.