Ever thought of selling your own produce / products at a local farmers market, alongside other farmers and vendors? 

Depending on where you live, you've probably got a few weekly farmers markets in the area where local farmers / food vendors bring their produce and make it available for direct purchase. While these markets have many benefits (local produce = fresher, more nutritious, etc) from a consumer standpoint, they're equally as advantages for local businesses.

Whether you're already established or not, local farmers markets are the best way to either start your business and/or gain local exposure.

In this article, we'll go through some important aspects to keep in mind before applying to local markets.

Allow yourself to feel nervous

‍Embarking on a venture as a farmers market vendor can be daunting.

On top of managing permits, refining your sales technique, and figuring out the logistics of packaging, transportation, and distribution, your ultimate goal is to ensure the success of your business.

Recognize the importance of this milestone in your career, know that nervousness and excitement co-exist, and grant yourself the freedom to make a few mistakes along the way.

Immerse yourself in the farmers market vendor community

‍As you embark on your journey as a farmers market vendor, ask other vendors if they have experiences or advice they would like to share!

As you become accustomed to the farmers market environment, experienced vendors may be available to assist with setup/cleanup and provide encouragement or emotional support throughout the market.

Immersing yourself in the vendor community opens the door for collaborations between businesses, such as joint promotions or event/workshop organizations.

Optimize your sales pitch

‍Your passion for your product has gotten you this far.

So, how do you market your product in a way that portrays its true value?

Well, there are several marketing considerations to keep in mind.

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• What is the product? Keep in mind that knowledge familiarity will vary among customers. Your customers will include weekly regulars who are well-versed with the products being sold as well as individuals coming to learn about new products. Explain your product in a way that the general public can understand, and feel free to get more in-depth with customers that want to learn more

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• Why is your product better than the alternatives? Explain what your customers will get from your product that they cannot get from other businesses selling similar products. While it is important to acknowledge the quality of your product, make sure to be mindful of your competitors and speak respectfully about them! Being able to acknowledge the strengths of your competitor’s product will make it clear to customers that you are valuing your product rather than attempting to put others down. 

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• What makes your business unique? This is where you explain your passion for your product and/or business. This may include talking about the inspiration behind your business or explaining why the world will benefit from your product. 

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When creating a sales pitch, humility is key

Have faith in your product, but acknowledge that there is always room to learn and grow.

To increase customer engagement, you may consider distributing cards or flyers with your business information or providing samples of your product (if possible).

If you are hesitant about your ability to effectively deliver your sales pitch, utilize your existing support system!

Asking friends, family, or loved ones to stop by your booth can help ease tension and provide you with more opportunities to practice your sales pitch. 

Work on your visual display

‍Product placement and visibility are crucial to your ability to attract customers to your booth.

Utilize props to showcase your product, display your products on shelves or stands to make them visible to more people, and create eye-catching labels and banners that are visible from far away. While your knowledge of and passion for your product will ultimately establish and strengthen your customer base, a visually appealing display can help you pique the interest of potential customers.

Forge connections with nearby local businesses

‍If your farmers market booth is situated close to other local businesses, take the opportunity to introduce yourself!

Establishing connections with these businesses allows you to expand your professional network and exchange valuable business operation tips. These connections will also allow you to gain insight into the crowd at the farmers market, such as peak sales times, demographic information about the crowd, etc.

Additionally, if any local businesses have a bulletin board, ask them if you can post a flyer advertising your booth.

Increasing familiarity with businesses in close proximity to your farmers market booth will allow them to vouch for you with their customers, and vice versa.

More than anything, you will have a few more friendly faces in the area to help support you throughout your farmers market journey.

Get out there and sell!

Establishing a farmers market booth may seem like an overwhelming task, but your community and fellow vendors are rooting for your success!

Be sure to utilize community resources and seek out help or support from fellow vendors when needed.

Congratulations on this exciting step in your career, and good luck!

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