Local producers who are interested in new marketing opportunities can learn what grocery store buyers, retail buyers and restaurants are looking for in N.C. food products at a Retail Ready for Local Foods Workshop sponsored by Cooperative Extension in Rowan County. The one-day workshop will feature information on best business practices identified by buyers in these markets that are actively looking for local food suppliers.
The workshop will also provide information about how to build relationships with these buyers on packaging and labeling, successful marketing strategies, pricing, food safety issues and regulatory concerns. Grocery buyers, other buyers and successful local farmers will share how to access these retail markets during panel discussions and answer your specific questions.
Retail Ready is a program for farmers interested in selling to restaurants, groceries and other retail buyers by expanding their current markets.
The workshop will take place Wednesday, March 13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rowan County Agriculture Center, 2727-A Old Concord Road. Registration for the Retail Ready for Local Foods is $20 which covers the class workbook, lunch and refreshments. Please call Cooperative Extension at 704-216-8970 by March 11 to register and for more information about the program.