How to Sell Food and Crafts at Markets and Pop-ups

Selling directly to customers at markets, fairs, and pop-up events can be an excellent way to build your brand, test your products, and generate sales. This online course will guide participants through what is required to get started in a market setting. Designed for makers, producers, and small business owners who want to explore direct selling opportunities and learn the practical steps involved in preparing for and operating a successful market stall.

Objectives:

At the end of the workshop(s) each participant will:

• Understand the benefits of direct selling at markets, fairs, and events, along with current trends.
• Be aware of the key requirements for starting at farmers’ markets or pop-ups, including the A to Z of preparation.
• Be able to set up and manage a stall effectively, covering pricing, marketing, customer engagement, staff considerations, insurance, and health and safety.

Course Content

• Overview of how markets and pop-ups work and why they are effective sales channels.
• Finding or creating direct selling opportunities and understanding market requirements.
• Understanding HACCP basics for food producers and essential insurance needs.
• Setting up a stall: layout, signage, essential equipment, and where to source items.
• Pricing strategies, selling techniques, and managing customer conversations.
• Marketing on a budget and promoting your stall effectively.
• Market etiquette, customer engagement, and preparing staff.
• Health and safety considerations and what needs to be in place.

Practical Elements

• Stall-setup planning exercises.
• Practice developing pricing, customer conversations, and marketing approaches.

Please Note: 

• This training is for businesses currently trading or planning on trading in Waterford City or County. If you are based outside of Waterford please contact the relevant LEO to access a similar service. A full listing of LEO offices is available by following this link - Find Your Local Enterprise Office
• By booking this course you agree to share your booking details with the trainer.

Delivery Method

This online workshop will be delivered via Zoom. Click the link below to see how to use Zoom.

Click here in order to find out how to use Zoom

Training Partner

This session will be led by the amazing Margaret Hoctor. Margaret is a businesswoman who has tried and tested every piece of advice she will give you. With a working farm, a background in psychology, and a regular market stall, she knows what works and why! Margaret has been described as a dynamo, and we agree!

Two factor authorisation is required when booking; please ensure you have this set up with your bank. If you experience any difficulties regarding payment, please contact the LEO office at 051 849905 for assistance.