With the renewed interest in direct marketing activity, more and more farmers are asking, Is direct farm‑to‑consumer marketing the answer? This question can best be answered after assessing:
• Personal abilities and desire to sell directly to consumers
• The farming operation’s compatibility with direct marketing
The assessment should also...
Strategies for managing production and marketing costs ensure greater
profitability and stability, especially for direct marketers who decide to expand and diversify their operations. In developing these strategies, it is important to understand concepts such as fixed and variable costs, depreciation, and interest. These concepts can help you develop budgets...
A successful direct farm maketing business requires a knowledge and understanding of effective marketing and management practices. This publication discusses what services and choices to offer customers and how to price and promote items for sale.
Selecting a good location for a direct farm‑to‑consumer enterprise is of primary importance in direct marketing. Although roadside stands, U-pick operations, and farmers markets can and do operate in different locations and settings, certain key factors contribute to a satisfactory direct market location:
• Being on a well‑traveled road near...
Selecting the right people to meet and serve customers is an important
decision in establishing and operating a direct farm market outlet. When
selecting and training employees, remember that customers expect a cordial atmosphere and friendly service. You want employees who are alert for opportunities to be of service, who...
Managing the financial affairs of a direct marketing operation includes:
• Raising capital
• Identifying financial objectives and creating plans to achieve them
• Budgeting for the future flow of cash receipts and disbursements (cash
management)
• Controlling the use and distribution of funds
• Protecting the operation’s assets
Capital...