In many ways, the Casey’s General Store story embodies the hard work ethic and people-focused approach that shines through in many Iowans.
The Casey’s story began in 1959 when our founder, Don Lamberti, leased his parents’ coal and ice store located on the north side of Des Moines, Iowa. After nine years, Don’s fuel supplier and friend, Kurvin C. Fish, or “KC”, as he was known, suggested that Don buy the Square Deal Oil Company and convert the existing gas station into a convenience store that offered both gas and groceries. The new store, which opened in 1968 in Boone, Iowa, was named "Casey's" — using Kurvin’s initials as inspiration.
Following successful store openings in Waukee and Creston, Iowa, Don realized there was truly an opportunity for a business model such as Casey’s to meet the needs of rural communities. In order to grow more quickly, Casey’s began offering franchise opportunities. The first franchise location was opened in Huxley, Iowa by Steve Risdal in 1971. Mr. Risdal and ensuing franchise owners became an integral part of Casey’s early growth and entrepreneurial spirit positioned the Company for its success over the years. The 1980’s brought even more “firsts”.