COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension, in partnership with the Missouri Forage and Grasslands Council and the MU Center for Regenerative Agriculture, will host a free, hands-on direct marketing workshop March 21 in Mount Vernon.

Businesses implementing regenerative agriculture practices like grazing cover crops or integrating native plants in their farm landscape have new opportunities to align production with consumer interests, said TaylorAnn Washburn, MU Extension program director.

“With increasing consumer interest in sustainability and local foods, producers have a unique opportunity to highlight their regenerative practices in their marketing efforts,” said Adam Boman, Missouri Forage and Grasslands Council marketing coordinator. “This workshop will provide the tools and resources to help producers differentiate their products in the marketplace and better understand marketing concepts.”

The workshop will cover key topics in direct marketing, including:

• Pricing strategies to ensure profitability and improve margins.
• Leveraging unique value and connecting with target customers.
• Tactics to market products in an increasingly digital world.

“Understanding pricing strategies is a critical yet often overlooked part of direct marketing,” said Jake Hefley, MU Extension agricultural business specialist. “We’ll discuss how to price products and explore resources that can help producers avoid leaving money on the table.”

Presenters will also discuss the importance of marketing online.

“As more of the world moves to a digital-first approach, producers must be prepared to connect with customers online,” said Washburn. “We’ll discuss how to create an effective marketing plan that uses platforms like social media to build relationships and drive sales.”

During a producer panel, seasoned businesses will share their experiences in direct sales, including online sales, buyer clubs and pricing strategies.

Boman said the workshop will offer networking opportunities with instructors and peers for shared learning, and a complimentary lunch will offer an avenue for attendees to exchange ideas.

The workshop is 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 21, at the MU Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center in Mount Vernon.

For details and registration, go to http://muext.us/regenagmarketing.