The Lane County Farmers Market launched a Value-Added Purchasing Program designed to help businesses stock products made by regional producers.
Funded by a USDA grant, the program builds on previous initiatives that helped Lane County Farmers Market vendors scale up processing and move into commercial kitchens. Participating producers offer value-added products including salsas, jams, pickles, spice blends, vinegars and canned fish through local retail stores.
The program offers discounts to participating stores while ensuring producers receive full wholesale price, creating a low-risk opportunity for retailers to test local products and establish ongoing sales relationships.
To showcase the program’s impact, a series of advertisements is being created to highlight local businesses that are supporting regional farmers and food artisans. The ads feature stories of business owners sourcing from Lane County Farmers Market producers, showcasing products from herbal teas crafted in small batches to fermented vegetables made with market-fresh ingredients.
The initiative supports small businesses and provides shoppers with more opportunities to support local vendors year-round, even when the Farmers Market isn’t open.
Business owners interested in sourcing local goods or community members wanting to learn more can visit the Lane County Farmers Market or call 541-431-4923.
Source: Lookout Eugene-Springfield