What’s Up with Farm Stops?

Have you heard the buzz about farm stops? From features in the New York Times to a well-attended Farm Stop Conference, this retail model is showing success in the field. 

What is a Farm Stop? 

Walk into a Farm Stop, and you’ll notice that while you’re shopping up and down the aisles like you might in a typical grocery store, the options are hyper-local. You’ll see farmer names and information, and offerings in keeping with the seasons. 

This is because farm stops turn the focus back on farmers and local food makers, offering their products on consignment – using regular checkout counters and operating hours that span the week. This option gives farmers another market to sell their products with margins similar to a farmers market, without the need to staff a booth. Compared to the traditional produce supply chain, where farmers make 15 cents on every dollar, farm stops offer a significant bump in revenue per product. 

Who benefits from a Farm Stop Model? 

Why change it up? Well, first, the farmers benefit greatly from this model, offering flexibility and financial success by getting the greatest piece of the pie back from each product sold. According to Ann Arbor’s Argus Farm Stop, this means local farmer partners have profited over $30 million since their opening in 2014. 

Beyond that, the customer benefits from a more resilient food community – and the opportunity to try something new! You won’t find paw paw or chestnuts at many big box stores, but area farmers can celebrate the area’s biodiversity through a smaller supply chain, leaving curious eaters satisfied with unique seasonal treats. 

Where can I learn more about farm stops? 

We recommend Argus Farm Stop’s learning materials, available in book form, or as virtual or in-person trainings. We also recommend visiting your closest Farm Stop for a full experience! 

Michigan Farm Stops 

Find more fantastic Michigan food hubs and retail stores with our Find Food and Farms Directory!