To successfully sell wholesale produce, Vermont Vegetable & Berry Growers Association and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets are hosting four events in March, two online webinars and two in-person events. 

Produce growers have many market channels to sell their products. Direct-to-consumer include CSA, farmers’ markets, and retail farm stands. Wholesale to distributors, stores, and food manufacturers are other options. The four events in March aim to provide wholesale insights and clarity through online peer-to-peer information, in-person warehouse and farm tours, and a day-long Forum with buyers and successful wholesale growers present. 

Designed to cover a range of topics with grower input, folks can attend any or all at no cost to participate. The series is funded by funded by a USDA Resilient Food System Infrastructure grant through The Vermont Agency of Agriculture and Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association with support from Farm to Plate. 
By understanding variables of wholesale distribution, growers can better gauge opportunities that fit their overall farm business plan in these uncertain times. 

The March Madness series will occur just before the growing season begins to kick in. The topics covered clarify possible obstacles while illuminating potential avenues of profitability.  Each in the series is an opportunity to learn and share with other growers who are considering the wholesale market channel. 

March 4th 12 - 1PM 

When Does Wholesale Work? Costs & Potential Returns - Webinar

Led by Rose Wilson reviews costs associated with wholesale. 

Available on demand on the VVBGA You Tube channel. Speakers subject to change. 

March 10th 9 AM - 2:30 PM

Voices of Wholesale- Sharing Experience Forum

Langevin House at VT State University

593 Furnace Street, Randolph Center, VT 05061

Producers and buyers gather to inform farmers new to wholesale. Panels & Discussions covering a wide range of topics and integration with other market channels. 
•    Crista Alexander: How wholesale distribution fits with retail & direct to store for Jericho Settlers Farm
•    Becca White @ Hanover Leb Coops: Our long history of B2B relationships in a changing environment for Produce Departments
•    Angus Baldwin West Farm ; 10 acre organic farm; Dee Root grower: relationships for multiple cales channels 
•    Lolly @ CAE Just Cut: Contracts & product specs & developing an outlet retail & food service outlets

Space is limited

Register Here

March 18th 12 - 1:00 PM

CAPs food safety Meeting Wholesale Produce Food Safety Expectations An overview for folks new to wholesale - Webinar

An overview for folks new to wholesale led by Hans Estrin & Emily Reiss
Designed by farmers to meet wholesale market needs, this voluntary program is coordinated by University of Vermont (UVM) Extension. This introductory session led by Hans Estrin & Emily Reiss will provide an overview of CAPS content, procedures, and policies. Wholesale buyers at stores and distributors look for food safety programs when onboarding new vendors. CAPs helps buyers have assurances that food safety procedures are met.   
 

Available on demand on the VVBGA You Tube channel. Speakers subject to change. 

March 26th 10 AM - 2:30 PM

Farm & Warehouse Tours

Foote Brooke Farm

641 VT-Route 15, Johnson, VT 05656

Building relationships between producers, distributors and wholesale customers is the basis of our local food economy. On March 26th, VVBGA hosts a day in Johnson visiting Foote Brook Farm & Deep Root Organic Coop Warehouse followed by a visit to West Farm.

The day covers a wide range of topics geared for growers interested in the basics of wholesaling produce. Product handling, packing, cold chain, shipping & product integrity throughout the supply chain to meet the needs of buyers. We aim for engaging conversations and a good day understanding how Produce is sold wholesale.

Space is limited

Register Here