Merchandising 101:
Sell Smart and Increase Profits
Build farm loyalty. Create an identity for yourself. Make your farm name and location clear to customers. Provide a description of your farm including location, acres, history, crops, and growing methods. Try displaying this information on a poster and include pictures of your farm. Or have a flyer to distribute to customers. Take advantage of the opportunity to educate shoppers about how things are grown.
Train employees! Make sure they are knowledgeable about your product and your farm. Continuity of salespeople builds relationships with repeat customers.
Provide samples. Let your customers taste the difference! Sampling can increase sales up to 30%. Ask customers: “Have you every tried this variety?” Make sure you follow the minimum guidelines for food safety detailed in this packet. Keep a separate box with your sampling tools, e.g. toothpicks, serving platter, napkins.
Supply recipes and information. Find recipes that are simple and contain a few ingredients that can be found at your stand or other parts of the farmers market.
Start an email list. Let your loyal customers sign up for a mailing list so you can inform them about special opportunities, other markets, and locations they can find you or your product.
Use your personality and expertise as a merchandising tool to build and strengthen your customer base.