We all know that over the course of one long year of COVID-19, our habits have changed. From baking bread to who we break bread with, new norms have been established at a rapid pace. One team of researchers, led by the University of Kentucky, is documenting the innovations and COVID-related shifts in the Local and Regional Food Systems markets. Check out the detailed results from a 5,000-household surveyed in the fall of 2020 here and read some key takeaways and lessons for businesses that we have extracted, below.
Doing Your Own Market Research
One of the most important tools you can use for your business is good market research. Being able to do your own market research gives you a unique perspective into your business and its potential. Knowing your market is invaluable when planning for your current and future business plans.
KCARD Q&A with Myrisa Christy: Coordinating Work in Eastern Kentucky
Myrisa Christy, KCARD’s project director, took some time to answer a few questions about herself and coordinating work in Eastern Kentucky and with our partners in the Appalachian Region.
Tips for Approaching Restaurant Sales
Have you ever thought about marketing your farm’s local food to restaurants but just don’t know where to start? We have put together a few tips for you to make the sales pitch as seamless and successful as possible.
Tax Season: The Schedule F and Why It Is Important
At KCARD, when we are working through financials for clients, we are often asked “Do I need to file a Schedule F?” or we often ask businesses if they have ever filed a Schedule F.
Q&A with Abby Clas: Looking for Research
Abby Clas, KCARD’s research assistant, took some time to answer a few questions about herself and the assistance she provides to KCARD staff.
Meat Processing: A Year Later
Last year about this time, we all began learning a lot more about COVID 19. We also started seeing grocery shelves with less meat on them than we normally expected to see. Meat processors in the state who were already at least six to eight weeks booked if you tried to schedule animals to be processed started getting a lot more calls as more people were seeking local meat and more farmers saw an opportunity to expand direct meat sales to consumers.
Q&A with Mattea Mitchell: Business Development Assistance
Mattea Mitchell, one of KCARD’s business development assistants, took some time to answer a few questions about herself and the assistance she provides.
Highlighting KY Local Food Expansion Initiative
With the Kentucky Local Food Systems Summit starting tomorrow (you can still register here!), we wanted to spotlight KCARD’s Kentucky Local Food System Expansion Initiative. Launched in 2020, the initiative works collaboratively with partners to assist Kentucky local food farmers and buyers in sales and sourcing of local food. Below are some common questions about the Initiative.
KCARD Q&A with Cara Stewart: Recordkeeping Support
Cara Stewart, one of KCARD’s business development assistants, took some time to answer a few questions about herself and one of KCARD’s many services, recordkeeping support.