HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Longtime downtown Hutchinson business Sleep Shoppe & Furniture Gallery has been purchased by Kevin Rule.

Rule has more than 25 years of furniture retail management experience in Wichita. He purchased the business from owner Brad Palmer.

Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery was started in 1980 by Palmer. In nearly 38 years, the business has grown to include furnishings for living rooms, casual dining, bedrooms, kids bedrooms, and a large mattress department.

The store is located at 11 N. Main in downtown Hutchinson.

“I chose Hutchinson on purpose due to the values I’ve witnessed here as well as the business structure of Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery. It is apparent that this company is well respected by both furniture reps and consumers, so it’s a great fit for me,” Rule said.

“Do I hope to add additional business and service? Absolutely! We intend to grow in a way that is beneficial to the community.” Rule wants to bring more people into historic downtown Hutchinson and become more involved in community events and organizations. “With an already great reputation, our hope is to take it to the next level of community participation,” Rule said.

“Knowing Kevin, I knew he would be a great successor to myself,” Brad Palmer said. “So many great employees have helped build this company through the years, and I am proud the legacy will be continued into the future.”

With a new grandchild on the way, Palmer looks forward to spending time with family, as well as pursuing many other interests. He’ll remain at the Sleep Shoppe & Furniture Gallery for 30 days to facilitate a smooth transition.