Research what similar products are selling for in your area. Consider your costs and a reasonable profit margin.
To set a fair and competitive price, follow these steps:
Calculate all production costs (inputs, labour, transport, packaging).
Add a target profit margin that reflects your effort and local demand.
Survey local markets and online listings to see where your product fits.
Account for seasonality, spoilage, and discounts for bulk or repeat customers.
Test prices, collect customer feedback, and adjust as needed.
Keep clear records of costs and sales so you can review and update pricing regularly.
Use a simple spreadsheet or mobile bookkeeping app to track inputs, labour, transport, packaging and sales. Record date, product, quantity, unit cost and total revenue for each transaction.
Marketing Locally
Small, low-cost marketing can increase visibility and sales. Start with clear signage at market stalls, labelled packaging and short product descriptions that state origin and freshness.
Offer tasting samples where possible to showcase quality.
Use WhatsApp or local groups to announce availability and special offers.
Partner with nearby businesses (shops, restaurants) for steady orders.
Track which channels bring orders and focus resources there.
Storage and Post-harvest Handling
Reducing loss after harvest directly improves income. Simple measures like drying produce correctly, using clean storage crates, and cooling perishable items quickly extend shelf life.
Sort and grade produce to separate damaged items.
Store in ventilated, shaded places; avoid direct sun.
Use low-cost evaporative coolers or insulated boxes for short-term cooling.
Regularly inspect stored produce and move older stock to sales channels first.
Customer Relationships
Building trust with your customers leads to repeat business. Always deliver what you promise. Keep communication clear about quantities, quality and delivery dates.
Collect simple feedback after sales to improve service.
Offer a small loyalty incentive for repeat buyers.
Be transparent about product availability during season changes.
Online Presence
Even a simple online profile can help you reach more customers. Keep your information up to date and use photos that show your product clearly.
Post consistent photos and short descriptions of stock.
Respond quickly to inquiries and confirm order details.
Consider adding delivery or pick-up instructions to listings.