April 2019 Small Bites
Promote Spring Cleaning!
Sell the products but just as important, be sure your store goes through a thorough cleaning too!

Nothing says winter is over like a complete cleaning. Invest in a deep dive with complete scrub-downs of coolers, floors, entrances , freshly washed windows and of course the debris field that lies just outside your receiving area!

Soon enough if will be time to rake, pick up litter and give a fresh spring appearance to the outside of your store.
Peer to Peer Sharing
A big shout out to Woodsock Farmers Market for hosting the Roots Market for a day of in-store operations and merchandising insights.

Taking time out of a busy work schedule to help another store become successful is truly admirable. Arranged by Farm to Plate, this type of business development provides key services and insights while showcasing great systems and Vermont products. The comprehensive tour provided many opportunities for a systems-approach to better understanding all aspects of retail operations.

Many thanks to Amelia at WFM and Bear Roots Farm , whose farm market is still in development, for a fantastic outing.
Butcher and Pantry has taken over the old Brownesville Store. With a wonderful cafe and a retail area focused on fresh local meat, proteins, and groceries this store is filling a niche.

Lauren and Peter's commitment to meeting the needs of the community shows at every level. As with any store, they are adjusting their product selections and working closely with their vendors for the best opportunities.
Want to see some great pictures? Scroll their amazing pictures and see how they publicly recognize their staff!
The new owners of the Ripton Country store are shifting product lines to meet untapped customers. Bringing on Garuka Bars , through Killam Distribution , has already proved a great decision. As a classic rural store with a rich history and loyal customers, Eva is slowly transitioning the mix by introducing products to meet the changing demographics and seasonal customer base.

The store is just steps away from some of Vermont's best hiking and camping, and close to the Middlebury Breadloaf campus, with its world-class summer programs bringing in folks from all over the world. By shifting product mix to capture sales Eva & Gary hope to showcase the flavor of its rich history, keep local customers happy and expand sales of yet-untapped customers.
Remember.... your sales reps can help you increase sales of Vermont products. Work with them on increasing product opportunities and in-store placement. Fred Silva of Chex Finer Foods is working with Clark's Quality Foods in Londonderry to increase sales!
Take 5 Tip:
Meet with local produce suppliers before the busy season to best plan for future sales! Promote these vendors as Rooted in Vermont

Also, take Advantage of trade shows and look for featured Vermont products. May 1 is the Vermont Roots Show - save the date & head to Rutland for tastings & chat time with producers.
Let us help you train your staff at no charge to you! Check out Take 5 ; our series of twelve 5-7 minute clips.


Funding support provided by Jane’s Trust & USDA