Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. This goes to keeping our farm running and expanding our home delivery service. Thank you for your understanding and support!
Creating Quality, Sustainable Products with Cost-Effective Packaging:
One key to keeping margins healthy is balancing product quality with packaging costs. Create a sustainable product, with the best ingredients and practices. Make your product unique, quality and taste are the first step.
I’ve found that using eco-friendly and reusable packaging(build into your pricing) not only reduces expenses but also appeals to conscious consumers. I even offer discounts to customers who bring their own reusable bags or containers to incentivize. It’s a win-win for the planet and my bottom line!
Value added items
Packaging is an amazing way to reduce your costs, while introducing something unique. Example: You sell apples, you can use crinkle paper, a box with magnetic lid, custom label, and add in a gift card. You can source these items in bulk and bring the cost down to create a whole new product with an even better margin.
Customer Retention Strategies:
Building a loyal customer base is essential. Do not overlook this. I’ve started a customer sign-up program at my stall. If someone doesn’t make a purchase that day, I encourage them to sign up for our newsletter. In return, they get a 10% discount on their next visit. It keeps them engaged and coming back for more. If they like it, create a list of signups, and have another list for people who have purchased before.
Creating a Unique Value Proposition:
One thing I’ve noticed is that a standout value proposition goes a long way. For me, it’s the whole milkman getup I wear – it’s a throwback to simpler times, and people love it! Find what makes your stall unique and let it shine.
Creating a novelty at your stall is a game-changer. I dressed as a milkman, I made a custom hat and everything. Whether it’s live music, cooking demos, or fun contests, it keeps customers entertained and engaged. Have something that stands out or catches the eye in a way that your targeted audience would find appealing.
Proper signage is a must. Chalkboards are great for when you have items that change. But be sure to create a brand image, and create a story around that. Maybe it’s a chalkboard for items and a rustic sign. Or maybe a fixed menu and a minimalist logo on a table cloth.
Essentials for Your Stall:
Lastly, don’t forget the basics! You’ll need a sturdy tent, reliable tent weights (a lifesaver on windy days), and durable tables. I’ve found some fantastic deals on these essentials through affiliate links that saved me both time and money.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. This goes to keeping our farm running and expanding our home delivery service. Thank you for your understanding and support!
Canopy
You’ll need to meet 2 requirements, dimension size market requirement, and durability. In most cases, 10 feet wide by 10 feet in length will do the trick. You’ll want something durable. Most cheap tents are only good for 1 or 2 uses, like the one I bought at walmart. I exchanged twice and both times the pins fell into the shaft of the canopy poles. The price difference between cheap and durable is only about $40-60 dollars.
This canopy helps fight wind and some heat with the white walls covering the sides.
Here is a great 10×10 that will give you the best bang for your buck
Tables
You’ll need a table, in my experience, they’re generally equially reliable. A 6 foot table works for me. A cooler, some props, and room for samples. An 8 foot table will give you a lot of room to breath. Here are 2 tables that are the best deals:
8 foot wide foldable table $99
Sample cups
Get cups that are paper. People tend not to like plastic at farm’s markets.
I hope these tips help you take your farmers market stall to the next level. It’s been such a rewarding journey, and I know you’ll do great!