BRUNING, Neb. - Bruning Grocery, a longstanding family-owned grocery store, was named the recipient of the 2025 Thriving in Thayer County Award by the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance (TCEDA) Board of Directors.  

According to a press release from TCEDA this week, the Thriving in Thayer County Award recognizes "outstanding businesses that demonstrate excellence in innovation, growth, community impact, and leadership within the local economy."

Local grocery stores are essential staples of small communities, and Bruning Grocery has been a key part of the town that shares its name for decades. Rex and Doris Phillippi purchased the store in 1973, and passed it down to their son Kurt. Now the store is run by their grandson Paul, who returned home to formally join the family business in the late 2010s, keeping Bruning Grocery in the family now for three generations.  

Bruning Grocery will formally be presented with the award at TCEDA’s Annual Meeting banquet on March 20 at the Stastny Community Center in Hebron. The event is open to the public.  

This week’s press release from the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance has been reprinted in full below. 

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TCEDA Announces 2025 Thriving in Thayer County Award Winner

Hebron, NE – February 24, 2025 – Thayer County Economic Development Alliance (TCEDA) Board of Directors are proud to announce Bruning Grocery as the recipient of the 2025 Thriving in Thayer County business award. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding businesses that demonstrate excellence in innovation, growth, community impact, and leadership within the local economy.

Bruning Grocery has long been a pillar of the Bruning community, known for its fresh, high-quality products and outstanding customer service. With a strong dedication to supporting local farmers, offering premium cuts of meat, and actively participating in community outreach programs, the store has made a meaningful impact on the local economy and the well-being of its customers.

“We are thrilled to honor Bruning Grocery with this year’s 2025 Thriving in Thayer County business award,” said Carley Bruning, TCEDA Executive Director. “Their dedication to providing a destination shopping experience and their continuous support of the community make them truly deserving of this recognition. We celebrate their success and look forward to their continued impact across Thayer County.”

The award will be presented at TCEDA’s Annual Meeting banquet held on March 20, 2025 at the Stastny Community Center in Hebron. The event is open to the public. Business leaders, local officials, and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend to help celebrate the achievements of outstanding enterprises that contribute to the region’s economic vitality.

Bruning Grocery joins a distinguished group of past award recipients that have demonstrated exceptional business acumen and leadership. The recognition underscores the importance of fostering a thriving business community and supporting local enterprises in their growth and success. A more detailed article about Bruning Grocery to follow.

For more information about TCEDA and its initiatives, please visit www.tceda.org or contact Carley Bruning at [email protected] or 402-768-7407.

THAYER COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE is a county-wide partnership working together to provide a strong economic base and quality of life for all Thayer County residents. We here at Thayer County want to see the county thrive, not just survive.