The newly reformed Rutland Business Association — most recently the Economic Development Committee — is working hard to quell the myriads of guesses and speculation about new businesses eyeing the area, stressing that Wachu-Chat and other online groups are not the best source for facts.

David Beck, one of three current owners of Westminster Pharmacy in Westminster, confirmed that he and his partners, Mudar Chalati and Sam Mardini will be opening the Rutland Family Pharmacy in early 2026.

“The rumors are true, “Beck told the Free Press, “We are in the process of opening a pharmacy in Rutland which will be located at 18 Maple Ave., Rutland.” This is the site of the former Rutland Pharmacy.

“We are making some minor renovation to the old (Rutland Pharmacy) space. The pharmacy must be inspected and approved by the Mass Board of Pharmacy before we can open,” he continued. 

The goal of Beck and his partners is to be open by March of 2026.

“We believe the closing of several local pharmacies has created a strong demand to bring a pharmacy back to Rutland, and we look forward to the pending opening,” Beck added. 

While we are talking about Maple Ave, the Free Press also had a chance to speak with Sam Bull, the new owner of the former Rutland Pizza building. Bull is a multi-generational member of the Wachusett community, and he is excited to be coming home to the area. 

“It is my intention to restore the building with three apartments and one commercial space,” Bull said. “I am not a business owner and do not plan to operate my business from the building but rather lease the space to a local business.” Bull continued.

Bull went on to say that at this time he does not have any businesses or tenants lined up as he wants to make sure that he has a solid timeline of when the building can be occupied before approaching anyone. He is working with the building department and inspector to bring the building back up to code.

“I think the commercial space would be well suited for a professional office,” he said. “The “Town Center” Zoning allows some wide flexibility for both commercial and residential uses. I would like to lease the space to a business that will complement the existing mix of businesses in the town.” 

Bull stresses that there is not a timeline for occupancy yet in place, and he is not in negotiation with anyone currently for leasing and occupancy. 

Next, for those of you looking to be inked locally, facts are the tattoo shop will not be coming to Rutland, according to Tomeca Murphy, Executive Assistant to the Town Administrator and Selectboard.

Lastly, Miso, the new Japanese Restaurant located on Main Street just beyond the Family Farms, cannot open until the remaining items needed for final inspection have been completed, according to Murphy.

“Clea (Blair) is currently working with the architect, Fire Department and Building Inspector to work towards this goal, “she wrote. “As of today (12/3/25) there is no tentative date for opening.”

The Rutland Business Association asks that you continue to seek facts from local news sources prior to spreading rumors. The RBA is expected to meet again to choose officers and finalize their charter December 17 at 6PM. This will be a closed meeting of the steering committee. The first public meeting will be held in January of 2026.  Watch these pages for more information.