Olivia Vogel, KCARD’s new Local Food Project Coordinator, took a little time to answer some questions about herself, the new Local Food Initiative Expansion Project, and give some helpful tips for producers interested in expanding their markets.

Q: What is KCARD’s Local Food Initiative Expansion Project?

It is a new initiative that was recently funded by a 3-year USDA grant. Essentially, we are working to connect Kentucky farmers who have a local food product with new markets and buyers. KCARD will use this grant to

1. Establish a statewide local food coordinator (me) and network to connect producers with buyers, facilitate strong institutional buying relationships, and serve as a key hub for partners;

2. Increase local food sales for producers by developing sales connections; and

3. Increase likelihood of continued local food business success by developing maps of distribution channels, clusters of local food economic growth, and local value chains and disseminating that information among partners, farmers, and buyers.

Q: When would be a time when someone would contact you?

If someone is growing and/or processing a local food item that they would like to start selling beyond direct-to-consumer markets and they need assistance identifying new markets for sales growth, please reach out to me! Or, if you are a business looking to source local food, I can help connect you with appropriate farmers.

Q: What are three things someone needs to prepare before talking to a new buyer?

1. Know the regulations around selling your product to a new market.

2. Calculate a price range for selling your product to a new buyer and don’t compromise profitability for the novelty of a new market. Make sure you consider the expected quantity to be sold and factor in any new expenses like packaging and transportation.

3. Consider your production schedule and capacity to produce more product.

Q:  What’s a key piece of information for a farmer to know when he/she is going from selling direct to consumers to selling to a distributor?  Or a restaurant?

They need to know that each market is different. It seems simple but considering the unique benefits and challenges of each market and deciding if it makes sense for your business is not always easy. There will be different price points, certifications, packaging needs, customer service, delivery schedule, and quality requirements. With some work, KCARD can help you navigate these differences and come to a decision that is best for your bottom line and your lifestyle.

Q: What is a common question you are getting right now?

We’ve had a lot of people interested in selling beef direct-to-consumer over the past year, but it has really increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. So, we’re planning a webinar series to answer the most common questions from production, to processing, to sales on July 14th – 16th. To learn more and register here: https://www.kcard.info/news2/beefwebinarseries

The interest in local beef from consumers and producers alike is really exciting to me because Kentucky has the backbone to support this industry. We have a lot of beef cattle (8th in the US) and farmers in the state and we have a great climate for pasture. Taking it from pasture to the plate is the next step!

Q:  Which local product do you like better – Ale-8 or Ski?

I’m not native to Kentucky, so it took me a few tries, but I’ve come to love that green glass bottle. I’ve never had Ski, but it must be alright because my good friend from Green County always grabs a few cases when he’s back in Kentucky.

Q:  Why do local foods matter to you?

I’d have to do a podcast to answer that one fully, but here are a few quick reasons.

1. Local Economy: I love sitting down for dinner and thinking about the farmer (and processor!) who helped put food on my plate. I am thankful for their hard work and I feel good knowing I am helping their business – which many times turns into more local jobs or a college fund for their kids.

2. Flavor: You know the difference between a store-bought peach and one ripened on the tree at your local orchard? In my opinion, that quality difference exists for almost every food item. Eating healthy is so much easier when it’s that delicious.

To learn more about KCARD’s Local Food Expansion Initiative or to connect with Olivia regarding your interest in getting into the wholesale marketplace, contact us today at 859-550-3972 or via email at kcard@kcard.info. You can also reach out to Olivia directly at ovogel@kcard.info.