FARM MARKET & AGRITOURISM Seven takeaways from benchmark survey of markets saw an increase in customer numbers compared to the 2021 season, with around 24% seeing no change and 21% seeing a decrease. This suggests that farmers markets and retail farm markets were able to attract and retain customers during a challenging time. Changes in Employees: Around 40% of P enn State Extension's Farm Markets team works with a Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) grant from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). The awarded project is titled Building Dynamic Marketplaces & Stronger Networks for Pennsylvania's Direct to Consumer Outlets. We are in our second year of the three-year grant and, as part of the grant, we conducted a survey to measure the health of our markets across the state. Survey results Changes in Customer Numbers: Overall, the survey data shows that the majority of respondents (around 55%) respondents reported adding employees compared to the 2021 season, with the remaining respondents either maintaining the same number of employees or reducing their staff. Changes in Products and Vendors: The survey data indicates that the majority of respondents (around 63%) added new products and vendors compared to the 2021 season, with around 28% reporting no change and 9% reporting a decrease. This suggests that farmers markets and retail farm markets were able to adapt to changing customer demands and preferences by diversifying their offerings. Kraft Grocery Bag Imprint Available INCREASED FAN COVERAGE, LONGER FRUIT BUD PROTECTION! * Exclusive trailing edge wedge increases fan area coverage - 43% more * 60 second mixing air movement on fruit bud - 72% more * 80 degree sector angle coverage - largest in industry By your side for 60 years! Serving the fresh Produce industry since 1959. www.rockfordpack.com | (800)444-7225 36 | MAY 2023 * Faster temperature rise on orchard floor - warmer air draw from higher up in atmosphere - more air movement directly under the fan Stainless steel engine hoods Standard equipment, no additional charge Phone: 509-248-0318 Email: hfhauff@gmail.com Web: www.hfhauff.com H.F.HAUFF COMPANY INC. New!http://www.rockfordpack.com http://www.hfhauff.com