Aggrevated at Farmers Market customers complaining about prices

[Lazy J Farms Feed & Hay]

Quote:
I really don't like that idea of throwing mud on the "big guys", don't forget that these are still farmers with families to feed.
Plus, even though the butcher has all these pictures and tells you how it "really is", it still might not be "how it really is", not everyone does things the same. Too much of our "information" has been twisted to spin it to make you think "their way", it would be worth looking into how these animals are really raised for yourself.

I do like the idea of having a breakdown of the costs of raising the food, I think more people need to know where food comes from, and need to know there is a face behind the food they eat.

I am sure the photos weren't sensationalized one bit either.

 

[Fourgirlsoneboy]

Education is the key here. Honestly, 5 years ago I had no idea what goes on during the 'food' process in the US today. Could you print up some pamphlets with pictures on why your product is superior to the commercial bird? I think handing a doubting customer easy to understand info is the way to go!

 

[Buster52]

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Excellent advice from a real pro. Thanks, Jeff. I'm just getting started in the farmers market thing and this was really helpful.

 

[scubaforlife]

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Is that the same as "price fixing?"

Not sure. I just talked to the guys and asked what they are charging and said I wouldn't beat them up if they don't beat me up.

 

[Lazy J Farms Feed & Hay]

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Is that the same as "price fixing?"

Not sure. I just talked to the guys and asked what they are charging and said I wouldn't beat them up if they don't beat me up.

That is called Collusion and is a federal offense when the big boys do it. If it keeps peace and profitability in your market and you aren't gouging the consumer go for it!

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

Quote:
Excellent advice from a real pro. Thanks, Jeff. I'm just getting started in the farmers market thing and this was really helpful.

lol I AGREE WITH YOU BUSTER!
Should anyone be interested in truely excellent informational marketing check out Brunty's web site. I consider it one of the best in the industry.

 

[lacasitarojafarm]

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I wanted to totally thank you for this advice. My husband and I are just getting started too and I printed your post for future refernce. Thank you!

 

[lacasitarojafarm]

Lazy J Farms Feed & Hay :

Quote:
Not sure. I just talked to the guys and asked what they are charging and said I wouldn't beat them up if they don't beat me up.

That is called Collusion and is a federal offense when the big boys do it. If it keeps peace and profitability in your market and you aren't gouging the consumer go for it!​

Most farmers markets operate this way. I know for the veggies we sell the vendors look around before the market opens so everyone has more or less the same price. Otherwise if you really seriously undercut someone else you risk upsetting your collegue who's help or advice you may need later. At the end of the market, like in the last hour or so prices come down so people don't have to haul all their veggies back however at the beginning the prices are all set more or less the same.

 

[Ridgerunner]

At the local big city Farmer's Market, the prices are set. No one is allowed to charge less or more for the same item. It is highly organized. At one of the nearby small towns Farmer's Markets, the rules are pretty loose. As long as you live in the zip code and produce it yourself, you can sell it for whatever you can get. Never assume about a Farmer's Market. Always check to see what the local rules are.

 

[Jess N Jeff]

Quote:
I really don't like that idea of throwing mud on the "big guys", don't forget that these are still farmers with families to feed.
Plus, even though the butcher has all these pictures and tells you how it "really is", it still might not be "how it really is", not everyone does things the same. Too much of our "information" has been twisted to spin it to make you think "their way", it would be worth looking into how these animals are really raised for yourself.

I do like the idea of having a breakdown of the costs of raising the food, I think more people need to know where food comes from, and need to know there is a face behind the food they eat.

I wasnt throwing mud on the big guys and yes I have seen for myself a large scale slaughter yard...not tv hype but up close choking smell crap kicked into my face by bessie and all. I have also seen a small scale family farm where the butcher came out and helped "do the deed". I've seen the cow strung up and bleed out and can say the difference was...shocking.

I'm not saying anything other then the info this butcher presented was great for someone who at the time had no idea. Now having opened myself to the real life and death of my food, I would much rather eat meat from my local farm raised cows, pigs and goats....chickens I do myself.