Many consumers have questions about how their local farming operations work. One way farmers can engage with their audience and consumers is through agritourism. Farmers who use agritourism can educate consumers about their operation and their heritage, highlight the work that goes into the operation, and more. In a society that values connection and relationships, agritourism is another way to build trust with your consumers and make some extra income for the farming operation.


Connect with the Local Community


    Having community involvement can show consumers you aren’t there to just make money. Attend local farmers markets, join church events, or partner with local food pantries. At these events, you can have raffles for a free tour of the farm or a free product. To gain customer and consumer loyalty in your community, be involved and look at it as an investment in your success.


Create Online Social Platforms


    Create a business page for your operation on social media. On these platforms, you can connect with other local farmers, stores, and organizations. You’re able to showcase what you do in your local communities, provide a day-to-day look into the farming operation, and allow customers to contact you on the fly. Get creative, stay professional, and engage with your consumers! Not only can you connect with others on Facebook, but you can also create accounts for Instagram, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and TikTok. The possibilities are endless!


Set-Up a Marketing Plan and Budget


    Develop a marketing plan for your agritourism operation. You can get ideas from other farmers doing it and there are many marketing sites online which provide free advice on how to market your farm on a local level and on a fixed budget. Not all marketing is free (unlike social media platforms, which are free). Every year, set aside money that can go towards promoting your operation to consumers. Plan for the cost of discounts you may give to consumers, costs to rent a booth at a farmers’ market, advertising costs, or costs for an event for customers to view your farming operation. Creating a marketing budget can provide structure around your promotion and events and allow you to evaluate the impact of specific marketing tactics. Talk with your financial advisor to see what you can afford and if the risk is worth trying something new! 


    Agritourism offers farmers an opportunity to market their products by providing engaging and educational experiences for consumers. By inviting people to their farms, farmers can create a personal connection, highlight their farming practices, build strong relationships with their customers, and make some money. This is a win-win situation for both farmers and consumers.

Credible Sources:

AgAmerica