Why should farms start to think about their online and offline sales more cohesively? As online offerings become more prevalent and in-person sales fluctuate with weather, health crises, and competition, being able to integrate online and offline sales is a crucial maneuver for success. Over the last 12 years, we...
Right now, many farms and markets are wondering what to expect for 2021 after experiencing rapid growth in 2020. In particular, many are wondering (worrying, even) whether the growth will be sustained and in particular, whether they can retain their new customers. These concerns are understandable – as often sudden...
In early 2020, many farms and markets found themselves adapting to COVID market conditions without the time to make a proper business plan. In preparing for 2021, it is time to take a look at your sales and operational plan to ensure profitability. In light of the shift to online...
Whether you’re running a large multi-farm hub or just beginning to sell online for your farm, you know time management is crucial for a successful business. “Time stealers” not only affect your bottom line, they can also prevent your business from growing and even flourishing. Time stealers are necessary but...
When you think of a farmers market, the image of a bright, family-friendly, open air market comes to mind. Streets lined with vendors selling farm fresh food and handmade wares with people gathering to shop for groceries and more. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many markets to close or...
As people stay at home for their health and safety, delivery has become the most convenient way people can shop for essential goods. For many farmers and food hubs, incorporating a home delivery service has been key to not just surviving the pandemic but thriving during these challenging times. Delivery...
Photograph by Profound Foods and Profound Microfarm Located in Lucas, Texas, Profound Microfarms produces high quality, aquaponic and hydroponic lettuces, herbs, and microgreens. Farmer Jeff Bednar and his team work with LFM to provide sustainable greenhouse products to hundreds of restaurants and discerning chefs throughout the region of North Texas....
As the season winds down, are you reviewing how this year has gone for your hub and where improvements can be made? Did you experience trouble this season with a producer circumventing your hub and making sales around it? We hear on almost a daily basis the struggle that hubs face in...