Owners Don and Gale Whitson-Schmidt originally lived in Evanston, Illinois and spent their former professional careers in the Chicago area. In 2004, they opened a seasonal gourmet deli and catering service in Door County, Wisconsin. It was named Katy Rose Provisions, after their goddaughter Katy Rose, who has always shared a special closeness with her Uncle Don.
 
In 2009 they decided to make their business year-round instead of seasonal and moved it to the Lakewood Ranch area, near their part-time home. Katy Rose Olive Oils features high quality extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world. All oil and vinegar products are available for tasting from fustis (stainless steel containers that resemble large milk cans).  When customers select the products they wish to purchase, the oils and vinegars are bottled on site to preserve freshness and ensure consistency.   

KRO also offers additional products that complement the Mediterranean theme: wines, lotions and soaps made from olive oil, unique bottles, gift baskets, napkins, fresh bread and cookbooks related to the oil/vinegar theme.