The rapidly growing and changing organic market has resulted in many buyers entering and leaving the business. Buyers who were solid last year may be on the verge of bankruptcy this year. The wise farmer will do some investigating. Industry publications are a good first source of information on buyers. When the farmer has identified some potential buyers, he or she should talk to other growers who have done business with the buyer.
Most reputable buyers can provide grower references.
The growing popularity of contract production can offer an opportunity for farmers to add value and reduce risk. But the unwary farmer can run into problems with contracting. A farmer considering contract production should know how to evaluate contracts and protect him or herself. Agriculture is a risky business. The production and marketing options available to farmers today offer more diversity and flexibility, but also increase confusion about the best ways to use these options.