Fads are something people talk about, but trends are something people do. Look for market niches created by consumer trends. Popular trends include anything to do with health and nutrition, convenience, ethnic products, foods for the weight -conscious or elderly and food safety concerns. To track these and emerging trends read “people” oriented publications such as USA Today, Cooking Light, and Consumer Reports.
Trend-driven niche markets are highly competitive and demand the highest quality product and packaging to differentiate your product from the crowd. Some trends have a very short or seasonal life-cycle while others may continue for several years. Be prepared to change your product mix, packaging or distribution with changing consumer preferences.
Explore Resources from Market Outlet and Tools
Agritourism
Alternative Sources of Payment
Choosing Distribution Methods
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Direct Marketing
Internet Sales
Mastering Marketing
Marketing to Restaurants and Food Retailers
Maryland Niche Meats & Poultry Working Group
Maryland Niche Meats and Poultry Producers Online Directory
Selling a Service
When Advertising is a Waste of Resources
Wholesale