Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Upcoming meetings assist producers in developing markets

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February 9, 2007

Producers interested in learning how to market to foodservice and retail distributors are invited to attend a “Bridging the Gap – Selling to Distributors and Forming Supply Networks” workshop in Iowa on March 13 and 16, 2007. The meetings are sponsored by Iowa State University Extension, Value Added Agriculture Program and the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture.

“Foodservice and retail distributors are continually seeking ways to buy from local producers,” said Connie Hardy, program specialist, Value Added Agriculture Program at Iowa State University. “Their customers, whether restaurants, hospitals, grocery stores, college campuses or convenience stores, want to satisfy a growing consumer demand for locally grown food products. Consumers look for unique, seasonal products as well, and they value knowing that the food product was grown in their home region. Selling directly to these consumers can be very rewarding for the producer, but often it is impossible to reach the consumers on a large scale unless the food can be handled by a local distributor who serves larger accounts.”

This workshop will focus on how producers can bridge the gap—from direct marketing to marketing to food service and retail.

At the workshop, producers will learn from foodservice and retail distributors about specific opportunities in meat, dairy and fresh produce that exist for Iowa producers to reach larger consumer markets. Extension staff will share a new web-based marketing tool, factors to consider in calculating transaction costs and ways to evaluate production contracts that can help producers in business planning. A panel of producers who work within supply networks will share their experiences in aggregating supply for larger markets.

Pre-registration is preferred by calling the VAAP office at 515-294-9483. The cost of the workshop is $20 prior to March 3 or $25 at the door and includes lunch, breaks and materials. Meeting locations are: March 13, US Bank Community Room, Vinton and March 16, Community Center, Coon Rapids. 

For more info contact:

Connie Hardy, ISU Extension Value Added Agriculture Program, 515-294-8519; chardy@iastate.edu

Christa Hartsook, communications specialist, AgMRC, 515-294-4430, hartc@iastate.edu 

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