Getting closer to the market
4 December 2000
Getting closer to the market
WHEN I was in the UK in February, I was rather surprised that there were so few farmers markets.
It really is a good and traditional way for farmers to add value to their products, as well as to connect with consumers.
New skills are needed, and the customer is always right, but the rewards of selling direct vastly outweigh conventional marketing.
I have been direct-marketing organic beef for several years and it gives farming a whole new meaning.
I would think that since the average consumer in the UK is light years ahead of the average American in terms of “food knowledge”, there should be plenty of opportunity for many farmers to become direct marketers.
The only hindrance could be governmentacceptance and red tape. Best of luck!
Jim Goodman, Wonewoc, Wisconsin
r.j.goodman@mwt.net