Editorial: Become Rich: Be A Farmer

Yes, you read that headline correctly. Question: Want to make money? Answer: Go into farming. Maybe the use of the word “rich” is a stretch, but according to a recent Time magazine article, farming presents opportunities. Of course, the article refers to Nebraska, a state not known for vegetable production, but nevertheless, I see the point the article is trying to make. The looming problem (or is it an opportunity?) of feeding the planet certainly cannot be ignored. The way to take advantage of that opportunity is to go into agriculture.

Just last February, AVG ran an article about ag’s role in an economic recovery. Dr. David Kohl, professor emeritus of economics at Virginia Tech University, said in the article that agriculture could be an engine to drive recovery. “Agriculture can provide an engine of growth, producing food, fiber, fuel, products for the growing life sciences field, and life experiences,” he said. (To read the article,.

Create Opportunities

That all sounds well and good, but in the meantime, the economy is still hobbling along and we are hearing way too many negative stories. On a positive note, growers strive to produce the best and the safest produce possible. So what can you do to improve your bottom line and make your business more profitable in an uphill economic climate?

For starters, figure out a way to set yourself apart from the competition, whether you sell your produce at a roadside stand, farmers markets, or wholesale. Here are three tips to help you achieve your goal:

1. Use social media to promote your operation. Whether you like it or not, people love Facebook and Twitter. Let your customers know when a crop is ready via both of these online tools.

Have you heard of Foursquare? According to a recent article in the Baltimore Sun, a grower in Pennsylvania is using this social networking site to bring in more customers. Foursquare allows users to “check-in” at any business location. When a person “checks-in,” that notifies his friends on Foursquare. This tool can be used to spread the word on virtually anything, which can include what is going on right now at your farm.

2. Brand your produce. You are proud of what you produce, so you might as well boast about it.

Create stickers with your farm name on them. The owner of a 200-acre farm I visited had stickers with the farm name on packages of cucumbers sitting on the shelves of the farm market. He said he was convinced the stickers helped him with repeat sales.

3. Offer something unique. You probably know what your customers want, but have you done any research into what may be a “niche” item that could bring you additional returns? Do some research and find out if growing a small amount of a niche product may help feed your bottom line. For example, take stock of any ethnic neighborhoods in your area. You may be able to provide the folks from that neighborhood with a crop they haven’t been able to find at the grocery store.

The point is: be your own engine of growth and drive your sales forward. I could use a lame expression like “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade,” but I think you get the drift.

Have an interesting success story you’d like to share? Share it in the comment box below, or send me an eMail. I’ll be sure to include your comments in an upcoming issue.