How to Market Organic Products

Organic products are attractive to people with healthy lifestyles.

Organic products, which are generally made with natural materials and no pesticides, are popular with consumers who pursue healthy lifestyles. As you develop a marketing plan for your organic products, consider how you can reach people who are interested in wholesome, chemical-free living. Effective marketing can increase your sales and bring your products to a larger number of customers.

Instructions

1. Design basic marketing materials. Start with a website and a simple brochure that outlines your company's philosophy, details about your products, and information about your organic processes in growth and production. Focus on the preferences of the customer by emphasizing your social responsibility, environmental policies, and the use of recycled materials. Print your brochure on recycled paper and use environmentally friendly soy ink.

2. Approach stores that have an interest in carrying organic products. Try food co-ops, whole foods markets, health stores, alternative health outlets, and boutique free-trade outlets. Bring a sample of your product and drop it off with literature and a request that the store consider carrying your products to reach a larger market sector. You might also include a photograph of a sample display, information on how your product is different from the other products the store offers, and any market research that lets the store know how your organic products can fill consumer needs.

3. Sell your goods at farmers' markets and health fairs. This type of event often attracts consumers who are interested in whole foods and healthy lifestyles; set up a booth to sell your organic products to the assembled crowd. Use a large sign with your company name and logo and use the word "organic" in a prominent location to draw people in.

4. Emphasize the affordability of your product. A common perception of organic products is that they cost a good deal more than their non-organic equivalents. Utilize a marketing message that speaks about the reasonable prices; when possible, give side-by-side price comparisons or use numbers to make a point.

5. Host education sessions. Get your company's name out into the community by holding seminars or classes in partnership with a complementary business. You might speak at a local health foods store, for example, or run a series of classes at a food co-op. In doing so, you will have access to an interested audience and the business will see an increase in foot traffic to the store.

References

• Texas A&M: A Guide to Marketing Organic Produce