Marketing Practices and Financial Performance of Local Food Producers: A Comparison of Beginning and Experienced Farmers

by Stephen Martinez and Timothy Park

Local food sold directly to consumers, retailers, and institutions may provide financial benefits to beginning and other farmers compared to farmers who market through traditional channels. This report evaluates the characteristics, production, and marketing practices, and financial performance of local food producers with varying levels of farming and direct marketing experience.

Keywords: Local foods, 2015 Local Food Marketing Practices Survey, beginning farmers, financial performance, marketing expenses, internet, food hubs, processors, wholesalers, producers, farmers’ markets, retail, e-commerce, farm management, third-party certification, Farm Bill, National Agricultural Statistics Service, direct-to-consumer sales, food system, marketing plan, retail, institutions, commodities, fruit, vegetables, crops, eggs, livestock

In this publication...

• Entire Report
• Report summary