Farm Market Merchandising: The Keys to Incredible Sales

If you are a farm market vendor, CSA farmer, or run a seasonal market at your farm, you can tap into better profits if you merchandise like the pros.  This workshop will give you insights about produce sales techniques and show you how to dress up and arrange your stand to increase sales without a lot of effort.  Extension marketing specialist Eric Barrett from Ohio State University will share his observations from a recent tour of Upstate New York farm markets.  He has developed a list of key strategies for farm market vendors as an independent witness to what local farmers are doing well - and poorly.  Eric Voigt, a professional produce merchandising consultant (think “major grocery chains”) will explain the best steps for building sales and making an impression that brings more loyalty from your customers. He will share tips based on consumer research on maximizing your display quality.  Both presenters will take questions and respond to your merchandising ideas.

Even in competitive, multi-farm markets where everyone is selling their best, you can have an edge if you make the most of merchandising.  This very special workshop is directed to experienced and new farmers throughout New York State who are trying to garner the best sales possible.

Fee: $25.00 per person includes lunch, handouts, and expert advice on farm market merchandising.

Pre-registration is required by February 20, 2012 by calling Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County at (585) 394-3977 x427 or e-mail Nancy Anderson with your full contact information to nea8@cornell.edu.