Ray’s Specialty Meats to close at month’s end

Luke and Cindy Williams have regretfully announced the closing of Ray’s Specialty Meats at the end of March. Circumstances beyond their control are responsible. The New London community is devastated by this news.

In her announcement, Cindy thanked the community, surrounding area and their loyal customers. She noted, “This has been an awesome experience and we are so happy to have been part of the New London Community for this past 3+ years. Cindy also requested that outstanding gift cards be used by March 20.

Thinking back, on Jan. 21, 2025, Ray’s announced that government regulations had changed. They were unable to use their smoker due to insurance regulations. Pulled pork, bacon, summer sausage, ring bologna and meat sticks could not be made without the smoker. Venison items were also included in this ban. Finishing the current orders became a priority but no new orders could be accepted due to a deadline imposed by the insurance company. Some in-house items such as tenderloins, brats, and flavored patties ran out. As time was available some items could be made and restocked. The transition has been difficult and frustrating for everyone.

Ray’s custom processing of wild game and fresh meat was an important part of their services. Many hunters prefer processing the venison into sticks and sausage rather than steaks, roasts and deer burgers. The loss of the use of the smoker was critical to this service.

The smoker was handmade and did not contain the UL label. The insurance company now requires this label. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) labels, also known as UL marks, are safety certifications displayed on products. Even though the smoker is safe insurance companies do not do safety inspections but rely on third party certification.

Ray’s also stocked items to use preparing tasty dishes from the mean products and cooking easy sides to complete home meals. The companies that supply these items changed the minimums that could be purchased and delivered. In some instance the number of cases to be ordered went from 2 to 5. In the small grocery provided by Luke and Cindy for the convenience of their customers, more items were on the shelves at the expiration date. Removing items from the shelves for this reason is difficult. Everyone hates waste plus the bottom line is negatively impacted. It seems that small businesses are finding it more and more difficult to prosper and survive in the current social culture.

In addition to providing a custom meat service, Ray’s hosted community activities. The Trunk or Treat Halloween will be missed by the entire community. The perimeter of the parking lot was filled with groups and private individuals dressed attractively and serving safe treats to families. Inside, Luke and Cindy also celebrated with treats and family in costumes.

The Williams will be auctioning the equipment and the building at a later date after closing at the end of March.