The most intuitive way to incorporate farm-to-table into operations is by
working with local farmers to source anything that is locally available, then
shipping the remainder of expected products as normal. This will work best
by gathering data to show what goods customers demand the most so that
those can be given high priority. Any in-season produce can be sourced
locally while out-of-season produce and other more manufactured goods will
still be shipped.
A major benefit of the farm-to-table approach is the ability to market
that idea with consumers. The growing demand for sustainably sourced
goods has created more public awareness of farm-to-table, so offering those
options will attract a clientele that does not mind paying more for a premium
good. Additionally, the creation of relationships with local farmers may
reveal opportunities for the business that it would not have found otherwise.
The main risk is an inability to stock the goods consumers want, since,
"coping with seasonal food ingredients which means constantly changing
[stock] to what is available" (Plants, 2021).
The most important data to consider will be the list of goods that can
be reasonably sourced through farm-to-table as opposed to shipping. These
will include the produce that is in season and any other less-processed goods
that can be purchased from farmers. This data should be collected through
purchase records or customer surveys. Additionally, communication with
local farmers will help to get the program set up, since the grocery store can
establish which suppliers will be best suited for their needs. This
communication should include prices, availability, and any other terms the
agreement will have.
References
A primer on farm-to-table movement: Benefits and challenges. Plants Spark
Joy. (2021, June 20). Retrieved January 26, 2022,
fromhttps://www.plantssparkjoy.com/farm-to-table-movement/
