Buying directly from a farm to get fresh, local products is one of the hottest trends among foodies.
“Fifteen years ago, local wasn’t really hip,” said Kerry Engel of Alberta Agriculture.
The president of the North American Farmers’ Direct Marketing Association, who is monitoring trends in direct farm sales, shared tips to get more customers to the farm in a special session May 9.
As more people seek local foods and choose to support local producers, they are also learning to accept the seasonality of foods.
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She said local food and direct marketing carry certain expectations among customers who want to be fed and entertained.
“We are seeing many different ways where farms are looking for ways to fill your tummy,” she said.
People are more concerned about their health as the incidence of diabetes, heart disease and obesity rises.
“What we are eating is practically killing us,” Engel said.
Consumers are looking for foods that are fat-free, gluten-free or that contain less sugar, she said.
There are new ways to approach the customer looking for new foods, including setting up an on-farm bakery or cafe so people can select from a menu of items grown and prepared on the farm.
Shoppers may also want to watch food prepared or take cooking lessons from a professional.
“Fifteen years ago, we would have laughed about a chef and a farmer working together,” Engel said.
The farmer can offer activities like tours, haunted houses in the fall or planned events like birthday parties or weddings. Children’s activities are important because they often influence their parents to spend more.
More are using social media to promote the farm and let customers know when food is in season or when special events are planned. Regularly updated pictures and videos can provide a broader view of what is going on and what there is to do once visitors arrive at the farm.
“They provide regular updates so customers don’t forget about you,” Engel said.
Social media also helps farmers stay in touch and share ideas.
- erect roadside signs to direct consumers to the farm
- themed decorations, food, gifts and activities on site enhance the country ambience and prolong the visitor’s stay
- greet visitors and offer information about the farm’s history and connection to the community
- join an association to stay in touch with other direct marketers, www.nafdma.com
