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  • From: Roots Farm <karen AT rootsfarm.info>
  • To: Market Farming <market-farming AT lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: Re: [Market-farming] First market tips
  • Date: Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:08:20 -0400

We send out a list to customers by email once a week as to what will be on table at market Sat.  They are able to order and we will prepack their orders (during an already crazed, too busy Fri pick & prep) but it speeds time at market and definitely builds customer loyalty and friendships.  I resolve every Sat (after not enough sleep) on too-early AM drive to market to have fun and enjoy people.  And I do, despite all weariness & frustrations.  My own enjoyment helps win and keep customers.  I say Good Morning and smile (and mean it) to all passing.   I  notice & comment (heart-felt meant positives only) on what's written on t-shirts, on special clothing, on gorgeous/great kids, etc.   Some of those hurriers end up stopping to respond, talk and buy = new customers.  Having something weird (e.g., strange vegetables) or particularly beautiful (e.g., escarole) or otherwise unique on table also brings in new folks and conversational opportunities.  (Here in Dominica, small pots (also for sale) of "exotics" like strawberries works wonders.)    I think if you are having fun and emitting positive vibrations, folks will be attracted and can then be maintained with superlative produce & customer service.   Meanwhile, you do your own health -- as well as bottom line -- a service.

All best wishes,

Karen

Roots Farm Organic Produce
Fruits, Roots, Vegetables & Herbs
Cochrane, DOMINICA
767-449-3038 (before 7 P.M.)

On Apr 22, 2012, at 9:54 AM, Richard Moyer wrote:

Beth and John,
Thanks for first market tips, many returning and new customers yesterday.  Struggle for me is when I converse for more than the purchase alone, a line can form, and by their body language some customers behind want the quick purchase.  When I can bring a child along, they usually staff the "express lane".

Am trying to have more self-serve items ($1 bunches or pre-bagged greens).  Then customers can grab what they want, total their purchase and hand me exact change while I talk with others.

The idea of some customers "wanting to buy a relationship" interesting.  Really listening and responding from 7-noon can be tough, especially when short on sleep and energy due previous day's picking and packing.

Where do Email lists, Facebook pages and/or farm websites, other? fit into this customer relationship building/maintenance?

Hoping your markets start well,
Richard Moyer
SW VA
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