It’s difficult for the average farmer to budget the time for the long drive to Saint Louis in order to sell food, especially if they run a small operation that focuses on sustainably raised produce and proteins. Farmers who bring their food to markets have to stretch themselves in several ways: growing, harvesting, transporting, marketing and selling – and all for a profit margin that isn’t guaranteed. On top of those responsibilities, potential customers expect them to be a personable, friendly face that represents their product – something that few people are naturally good at.
GDA Program Manager with a Geisert Farms pig.
Luckily, Todd Geisert, known for his responsibly raised, delicious pork products, is here to help; wanting to represent his fellow food producers, Geisert and his wife, Katie, are opening Farm to You Market and Distribution Center in Washington, MO. The center will create a cost-effective way for local farmers to get their food to St. Louis restaurants.
Farm to You Market and Distribution Center will also include a commercial kitchen and cafe, featuring the local meats and produce for sale at the market. All the meat sold by the center will be pastured, meaning the animals have access to sunshine and the grasses they need to thrive. Seasonal produce will be available as well.
The distribution side of the business won’t just help small farmers – it will serve as a much-needed resource for local restaurants who want to include more local, farm fresh ingredients but lack the resources to travel to small farms.
The market is slated to open in the spring of 2016.
