Are you interested in becoming a farmer's market seller? If so, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started on your journey to becoming a successful vendor at a local farmers market.
Deciding What to Sell
The first step in becoming a farmer's market seller is deciding what you're going to offer. If you already have an idea of what you'd like to sell, such as handmade or cultured products, then you can move on to the next step. However, if you're a small winery, you'll need to apply for an agricultural market permit through the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).Understanding the Requirements
It's important for both market managers and vendors to be aware of the requirements of the Michigan Food Act when it comes to farmer's markets. Although the responsibility for enforcing these requirements lies with the local Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), it's still important for vendors to be aware of them. In some states, farmers markets require mushroom sellers to sign agreements that exempt the municipality and the market manager from claims for damages in the event of a consumer's illness or death. It's also important to have a copy of your MDARD license on hand at the agricultural market for the market manager or local food inspector to consult.Accepting WIC FMNP Coupons
If you want to accept WIC FMNP coupons at your farm market or roadside station, your market must be approved by the appropriate WIC FMNP agency in your state.Accepting Card Payments
When it comes to payments, card payments are pretty much standard nowadays. You may want to consider accepting credit or debit card payments at your farmer's market stall. You can also use Zettle to accept payments with PayPal and Venmo at a farmer's market using QR code technology.Creating a Business Plan
Even if selling at a farmers' market seems more like a hobby than a business to you, it never hurts to create a business plan before you start. Additionally, you should think about whether you'll accept larger or personalized orders during the time you spend selling at a farmer's market.Licensing Requirements
If the seller is not the producer of the raw products used to make the coleslaw base, a food establishment license is required to sell at a farmer's market. Insurers associated with municipal sponsors of farmers markets may require the municipality to take out additional liability insurance.If this requirement is met and the seller is the owner of the authorized plant, no additional license is required in the agricultural market to sell those products.
