Whether you sell at farmer’s markets, have an online store, or deliver directly to customers, there is room for you to expand and improve your business model. As more consumers are particularly conscious of where and how they buy, the demand for local products from small producers is ever increasing. So how are you standing out above the rest? Are you doing enough to stay ahead of the ever-changing market?
Keep in mind; these festivals also come with minimal cost. The festival or market’s promotion is not in your hands. Other than simply paying for your booth, you have minimal expenses.
Leverage Local Markets and Festivals
If you don’t already have a stall at your local markets or festivals, consider getting involved with these. There is a significant opportunity, especially if you’re a small producer or make artisan products. These markets, which are continuously springing up, have a major emphasis on local. This is because local is associated with freshness, better quality, and less environmental impact.
There has been a great demand for hand-made products with other artisan products, especially in recent years as more consumers are looking to support small businesses. According to Intuit Mint Life, 57% of consumers prefer to buy locally to keep the money “close to home.”
Keep in mind; these festivals also come with minimal cost. The festival or market’s promotion is not in your hands. Other than simply paying for your booth, you have minimal expenses. Additionally, you have the opportunity to promote and sell your product in person. This builds trust and creates a unique experience for everyone who engages at your stall.
Set Yourself Apart From Other Small Producers
Although more consumers are opting for fresh, local, artisan, or low-impact products, it is vital to ensure you stand above those doing something similar to you. Simply having the product readily available is not enough. This is especially true at farmer markets.
Have a look at what your competition is doing. Make a note of how they perhaps package, distribute, label or deliver their products. Take note of any personal touches they add. By seeing what others are doing and analyzing your own product, you can find what sets your product apart. If you’re at a farmer’s market, and everyone is selling the same produce, what will set you apart? Will it be your package design? Are you leveraging your unique packaging or perhaps leaning on your lower prices?
As small producers, decide what separates you from your competitors, and don’t miss an opportunity to focus on this distinct trait.
It is 2021 after all, and you don’t have to get stuck in the traditional ways of promoting or distributing your products. Find ways to use technology to help you with marketing, admin, customer service, and inventory.
Don’t underestimate Samples
The importance of samples, no matter the product, is a highly underrated aspect of the business. If it’s possible to create samples of your product, use this to promote your products.
If you’re at a farmer’s market, allow customers to try your product. Alternatively, if you sell online, add a small sample size of one of your other products to their delivery. This opens up the opportunity to try one of your other products. According to Peekage.com, when customers were asked, “what would induce you to try a new product or brand,” 73% answered: free product samples.
There are other ways you can increase your sales, too, so check out our article on Simple Ways to Increase Sales.
Create a Website for Your Business
No matter the size of your business and no matter the product you are selling. Small producers need a website for several reasons. Not only does this create an opportunity for customers to view your product and get to know your business, but it opens up marketing and promotion opportunities. And most importantly, it legitimizes your business. Many customers expect “real businesses” to have some form of an online presence. And if your competition does not have a website or even social media, this could be one of the ways to set yourself apart.
Leverage Social Media’s Promotional Capabilities
Even as a small producer, social media offers many opportunities to promote your products. We are seeing more and more farmers and artisan producers using these platforms to showcase what they do. Instagram, for instance, has become the go-to platform to share beautiful photos of the products, share behind-the-scenes information, and engage with their customers.
These platforms help build relationships with customers and help them feel more connected with your brand. If you need help with a digital marketing strategy, have a look at our piece on Tools for a Winning Digital Marketing Strategy.
Use Smart Technology
It is 2021 after all, and you don’t have to get stuck in the traditional ways of promoting or distributing your products. Find ways to use technology to help you with marketing, admin, customer service, and inventory.
There is specific software designed to help small producers, Troly being one of them. Troly’s software enables producers to reach consumers efficiently, improve business operations, increase sales and distribution, and scale the business.
It was specifically created to help those who sell artisan goods and fresh produce. If you’re looking for ways, you can rapidly help your business, see what Troly is about, and sign up for a commitment-free, 30-day Trial. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.
