Spring is here and that means the Farmers’ Markets will get started very soon! This season is always busy, but welcomed as our weather is getting warmer, the days are longer and we know summer is on its way.
While farmers’ markets were found even in ancient Egypt, in America they date back to the 1600s. Markets were the primary means for urban customers to access meats, dairy, and fresh produce. These markets were significant economic operations and attracted many people into city centers.
In the 1800s and 1900s, farmers’ markets were not only important for economic success, but also for social interaction, as it was often the only means for rural and urban community members to meet.
Farmers’ markets remained the central means of buying and selling food until the beginning of the 1900s, with decreasing control and increasing competition in the food systems. In the 1950s and 1960s, with improved roads and high-speed transportation, as well as the rise of grocery stores, farmers’ markets began to disappear.
It was estimated that in the 1990s, food in the United States traveled an average of 1300 miles and changed hands 6 times before being eaten (coventmarket.com).
How to prepare for farmers’ markets
Here are some tips to consider as the opening date gets closer:
- Engagement & Consistency: Be at the market regularly so the customers recognize you and get to know your business. Engage and interact with your customers when they are at your stand: smile, say good morning or good afternoon. The buyers coming to a Farmers’ Market want to talk to you and hear your story so they feel great about buying your products.
- Presentation: While you are setting up your stand, think about how it looks to a consumer. Make sure your product is high quality, well packaged and well identified. Make a point to really make sure pricing is clear… so your customers don't walk away wondering what the cost is. Another idea is to offer samples, people love to eat and by trying your product it provides you a better chance for a sale.
- Flexibility: offer different ways to pay. In the world today, people like options on how to pay. Credit cards are one way, but offer other ways such as Venmo or Zelle.
- Promotions: If you are running a promotion, make sure to tell your customers when they are at your stand, and also make sure to have clear signage for your promo.
If you need other resources to help you get started, check out the following:
- How To Be Successful at a Farmers Market - CSU
- 8 Ways to Make Money at a Farmers Market
- Colorado Farmers Market Association
- Colorado Cottage Foods Act
- Food Safety for Farmers Market Vendors
Have a fantastic Farmers Market season!
Thank you for being a Colorado Proud member and good luck with all your businesses!
Barb Howe