On the Move: Beef Jerky Experience Coming to Cody

The owners of the beloved Red Lodge store, Beef Jerky Experience, are expanding their operation to Cody beginning in the next two weeks.

Owners Dale and Kalena Musgrave saw nearly 1000 residents between Cody and Powell in their rewards system at the Red Lodge store. “It made sense to start looking at opening a second store, so we began to watch for a place to rent,” said Dale. When the building previously occupied by Sean DeNamur Designs opened up, they submitted their idea to the building owner. They were one of many interested in filling that space. In the end, they received the opportunity to expand to arguably one of the best locations in downtown Cody on the corner of Sheridan and 12th Street.

Originally the Walls Bank Building, it still has vaults from the early days of Cody. The Musgraves put a substantial amount of personal money into the building to bring it to life for this new chapter in its history. Not only have they invested in electrical upgrades, but they poured a new subfloor. However, they have kept the original tin ceiling and the vaults will be utilized as well. New paint and other touch ups will give the building a facelift to match their brand while keeping the integrity of Cody’s history intact.

Building a New Chapter

Dale and Kalena come from the coal mining industry. Dale was a coal miner for 32 years and retired in 2021 from a management position. Kalena worked for 18 years in payroll and accounting for the coal mine. When looking at retirement they thought about a variety of businesses they might step into next. They considered many ideas from car washes to storage sheds and more. But Kalena had been ordering Jerky from a Beef Jerky Experience store for years. When ordering one day, she discovered it was a franchise and did her research and contacted them.

Next, they took a trip to Tennessee so they and the company could see if they were a good fit. During a discovery day, they spent time with the head of the company and learned at lunch that they would be a great fit for the franchise. Upon returning home, Kalena gave notice to the mine so they could be 100% focused on this new opportunity.

Celebrating the grand opening on June 8, 2022 at their Red Lodge store, they closed again on the 10th when the severe flooding happened in Yellowstone and surrounding areas. But ever since then, they have seen tremendous response and success.

100 Different Flavors of Jerky

The Beef Jerky Experience is a niche market that has proved itself. With so many different flavors made from beef, buffalo, elk, venison, salmon, and even camel, shark, alligator and kangaroo, it truly becomes an experience. There’s even a tasting station for you to sample the varieties.

In addition, they offer hot sauces, jerky kits, popcorn, peanuts, dried fruit and spice rubs. They offer gift boxes already made or will gladly help you create a gift box of your own. Also know they ship throughout the country.

Keep your eye out for this new addition in town!

This article is proudly sponsored by Cody Calendar advertisers