The Lane County Farmers Market launched a Value-Added Purchasing Program designed to help businesses stock products made by regional producers.
Funded by a USDA grant, the program builds on previous initiatives that helped Lane County Farmers Market vendors scale up processing and move into commercial kitchens. Participating producers offer value-added products including salsas, jams, pickles, spice blends, vinegars and canned fish through local retail stores.
The program offers discounts to participating stores while ensuring producers receive full wholesale price, creating a low-risk opportunity for retailers to test local products and establish ongoing sales relationships…