If you’re a farmer, then you know that growing the perfect crop is much more challenging than most people know. In addition, selling the crop comes with its own challenges, and storing inventory is tough when crops can spoil.
Thankfully, there are numerous different strategies for selling produce on the market. Here are the top ways to sell produce as a farmer.
Farmers Markets
The most traditional way to sell produce is to set up shop at your local farmer’s market. However, since these events are very popular, you’ll face more competition from other vendors.
Nonetheless, farmers markets draw in tons of foot traffic that make them a boon for sales if you play your cards right. All you need to do is register for a booth and gather your materials. Then, on the day of the event, go to the location early to make sure everything looks perfect and watch your sales grow!
Local Businesses
Places that sell fresh goods such as grocery stores, restaurants, and specialty delis are always on the lookout for local food suppliers. Transporting fresh food across states takes time and costs more than purchasing from a nearby grower.
If you grow fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, or any other type of produce, try reaching out to one of these retailers to see if they’re looking for more suppliers. A successful deal with a local business can provide you with a consistent revenue stream if your growing capacity is capable enough.
Reaching Out to Your Neighbors
If you have overstock that you don’t want to go to waste, reaching out to those around you could provide selling opportunities. Knocking on doors or calling up the people you know can prove worthwhile in the long run because it never hurts to ask.
The worst that can happen is people will say no. Also, leaving your overstock on a trailer or cart in your driveway with a bucket or safe for cash donations is an easy way to let your crops sell themselves.
Finally, if you can’t find anyone willing to buy your crops on their own, you can use old-school bartering to trade your produce for a product or service from someone else. For example, you could trade stalks of corn for
sweet corn bags. The possibilities for trading are entirely up to you.
Overall, there are countless methods for selling as long as you’re willing to work hard and think outside the box. Now that you know a few of the top ways to sell produce as a farmer, feel free to try them out on your own!
