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Farmers' Markets
Brief Description
A farmers' market is a market in which producers from a local area gather to sell their own produce directly to the public. By selling direct the farmer is able to sell produce at retail. A farmers' market is a low-cost way for a beginning farmer to learn about retailing and to develop marketing skills. The cost to participate is usually low, and at a good market there are plenty of customers. Farmers' markets have been increasing in popularity in the last two decades and many areas have one or more markets.
Benefits
- Established customer base
- Low marketing start-up cost
- Small lots of produce acceptable
- Immediate feedback allows testing of product line
- Retail prices
- Social contact, networking
- Ability to promote farm and products
Challenges
- Limited sales volume, since each contact is one to one
- Time to prepare and be present at the market
- People skills are a necessity
- Retailing skills are also necessary
- Establishing a loyal customer base takes a few years for a new market
Required Resources
- Vehicle to carry produce
- Display tables
Statistics
- The number of farmers' markets in the US has grown 79% from 1994-2002
- There are 3,100 farmers' markets presently operating in the US
- There are 12 independent farmer's markets in Georgia
- The increase is due to consumer interest in fresh, local products
- 58% of the markets participate in government nutrition programs, such as WIC
(The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)
- 19,000 U.S. farmers sell their produce only at farmers' markets
Tips
- Farmers should bring only high-quality produce to the market
- Display produce in an attractive and eye-catching manner
- It's all about relationships - talk to the customers; be friendly and courteous
- Ask a fair price, be reasonable and don't undercut fellow farmers
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