Have you heard of a “Farm Stop”?

As you may know, local food is at risk. In much of the country, the pendulum has swung in the direction of industrial agriculture, where food is produced far away from where consumers live, and the economics are stacked against small to medium-sized farms. Innovative approaches are needed to make purchasing local food easier, and in ways that economically sustain farmers, ranchers, and small local food entrepreneurs.

Originating in the Midwest of the US, a Farm Stop is a retail store, using a business model that brings local producers and local consumers together in ways that are more beneficial to both. It allows producers to set their own prices, offering more sustainable margins for local farms and ranches. It also provides a retail setting for consumers to buy local food — locally and year-round — and allows more connection and engagement between communities and their local producers.

Notable characteristics of Farm Stops:

• These stores offer reliable and convenient indoor shopping for local products, such as produce, meat, eggs, dairy, grains, bread, beverages, flowers, and other value-added products made by local food entrepreneurs
• Producers make much higher returns for their goods (approximately 70 cents on the dollar) than possible with typical middlemen or distributors
• Single checkout line to make purchases from all producers at once
• Producers have increased local and regional market access
• Close communication between farm stop managers and producers, with regular sales reports and payments
• Expanded opportunities for cold-weather growing and storage techniques
• Model flexible enough to be a co-op, an LLC or a nonprofit business

Where are Farm Stops located?

This business model exists in 14 states and is very popular in the Midwest, particularly in Michigan and Ohio. Farm stops bring local communities closer to their state’s rich agricultural regions. In Colorado, the RMFU Co-op Center is assisting in the development of a farm stop co-op in Salida.

Curious? Connect with the Co-op Development Specialist, Juliette Banerjee:  ju***************@**fu.org

Where can I learn more?

Is the Farm Stop Revolution Upon Us? – Modern Farmer

Our Mission: Growing the Local Food Economy — Argus Farm Stop – Farmers Market Meets Grocery Store

The Farm Stop model has transformed many communities’ access to local food across the country. Over the past eleven years, one farm stop business has taken the initiative to share their experience of developing a highly successful retail operation. Since its start in 2014, the Argus Farm Stop has grown to three locations in Ann Arbor, Michigan and also has an online business and a weekly produce box. They have returned over $30 million directly back to Michigan local farms and food producers. With high interest across the US and Canada, they wish to connect with other local food advocates and start-up projects. The Co-op Center at RMFU is working to adapt this model to our region and is eager to hear from our members what you think. Reach out to us!