People flock to farmers markets for fresh produce at fair prices all accross the country. Showing at a market is a great place for farmers to generate a little extra money and make people aware of what they do and what they grow.
If you are a farmer who is considering selling homegrown fruit at the local farmers market, you can contact the market directly for information. Farmers markets often advertise in the newspaper, but if you cannot find a contact number then visit the market directly and ask vendors to provide you with the name and phone number of the market organizer.
The Department of Agriculture also has a web presence that will give information on local market areas. This site is uaually a great place to find out about laws, rules and guides for developing a market in a region. They often have a list of markets that will accept new vendors and their products.
The cost of becoming a vendor varies quite a bit from market to market. Price is usually based on the size and popularity of the market and what equipment is supplied to the vendors. For example, if there were no tent, table or seating provided, a vendor would likely pay less for the space. Sometimes vendors are given an option to pay more money for a premium booth or electricity. Some markets require vendors to pay for an entire selling season in advance, while others rent spaces on a weekly or day-by-day basis. In some cases, farmers may be required to purchase liability insurance before selling at the market.
Regulatory agencies control health and sanitation issues at a farmers market so it is important to know these guides before getting involved. For example, if you want to sell boiled ears of corn it is wise to know the health guidelines before setting up shop. The Department of Agriculture can also give advice on this subject.
Farmers usually do not need any type of license if they grow the food they wish to sell. However it is a good idea to check on what the rules and regulations are. If reselling product a license is definitely required. This means if you pick up a truck load of watermelons from a farmer to resell you will need a license.
Tax rules can vary as well. Some farmers markets take care of tax information and others do not. A vendor needs to keep their own records either way. They can monitor the market or submit their own records. Having an accurate accounting of their sales will give them a system that works for either. A tax expert is a good idea as well.
Sellers should consider what things they would need to become a successful vendor. Although some farmers do not bother displaying a sign, a professional sign that includes the name of your farm, can help to increase your business. You will need a vehicle large enough to transport your produce, signage, tables, etc. Most markets require clearly displayed pricing on produce, so you will need to have price tags or cards ready for display. Vendors need to bring their own cash box, enough change and bags for their customers.
A good looking display helps get a space noticed. Vendor displays can compete with each other so having good details in place to catch a customers eye help. Good signs, use of color, and clever displays will help sales soar.