In a recent survey, NAFDMA learned that a large number of our farm members struggle with retail displays, traffic patterns, and merchandising.  This is not new, and nearly all agritourism locations have a retail display of some sort, even if it is just a pile of pumpkins or a stack of limes for purchase.

Resources

NAFDMA has held several different sessions over the years for retail best practices and determining products that will work for your customer base.  A few different options can be accessed for free by members using the Education Center on our website and clicking on the various options in the Retail section. 

Ideas

One great tip - display your offerings in a different way.  Hang a ladder from the ceiling and have gourds attached to it for selection.  This not only brings the eye up, but it engages a space that may not be used otherwise.  It has the additional benefit of being eye-catching, as no one expects a ladder to sport hanging gourds.  Be sure to also cross-merchandise.  Next to the pile of pie pumpkins, have some pre-made pie crusts so a family can take home both to make their own homemade pie.  Or have sets of carving tools for purchase so the family doesn't have to go elsewhere for their Jack-o-lantern supplies.

Stay Consumer Focused

Whatever products you have, put your mind into the space of a consumer and what will either make their life easier, or will capture their sense of delight and surprise.  You will feel some "retail therapy" in no time!