O'Sullivan indicates that presentation and packaging are often also important in drawing people to your produce, and he recommends that farmers take advantage of the lower cost and improvements in packaging. Packaging produce in these containers gives it a more professional image and allows growers to attach stickers identifying their operation. Such marketing strategies are invaluable in gaining return customers. O'Sullivan also recommends that farmers marketing produce at roadside stands and farmer's markets display their produce on table cloths, amid baskets and flowers which can also be sold. This is especially key when consumers are deciding between buying a locally grown product from someone they know or a supermarket product from a stranger.
Timing is also important for farmers hoping to provide produce when demand and prices are high.
To improve timing, O'Sullivan recommends that farmers watch for trends, and consult each other and experts in the field to be aware of approaching opportunities. The Southeast Vegetable Expo, which will be held December 14 to 16 at the Holiday Inn Four Seasons Joseph S. Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, will give farmers such an opportunity. According to O'Sullivan, the Expo will give growers an opportunity to interact with others in the field, and more than 100 exhibitors are scheduled to display products and services for the vegetable industry. All Rights Reserved.