by Viviana Victoriano

Created on: July 13, 2008

Stopping by a roadside fruit or vegetable stand is such a unique shopping experience that takes us back to simpler times. There is something extremely appealing in buying fruits and vegetables that just a few hours ago were hanging from trees or blossoming above the ground. It is very a very comforting feeling to know that these products are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals to preserve them, too.

No matter how big an operation you want to run, there are certain common steps that you need to take in order to be successful.

RESEARCH

Any new business venture has to start out with some research. You need to know what you are getting into. Basically you need to learn about your customers, your competition and making decisions about the products that you are going to offer.

Knowing about your target market and your competitors will help you define the type of products and services you are going to offer. You have to figure out what will make people stop by your roadside market and generate repeat customers.

Who will be your potential buyers? Are they local customers or people that commute from one place to another? What are their current shopping habits? Find out in the internet (census bureau) about demographics and population data in your target area.

Who will be your main competitors? How close are they? What products do they offer and at what prices?

Based on your research, plan ahead which products you will offer. Remember that the success of your roadside stand depends on the quality of the products that you sell. Concentrate in your area of expertise and plan production schedules in order to meet future demand. A variety of products is also a key element if you want to be successful. Consider approaching other local growers to supplement your supply when necessary.

You can also plan on some added-value items such as homemade jams, pies, cakes, quiches, salad dressings, etc. These can give you a competitive edge.

LOCATION

It is very important to observe the traffic flow in the vicinity of your potential location. What type and volume of traffic is there during different times of day?

Is your potential location visible from the road? Will it be accessible? You have to observe if passing cars will be able to slow down and stop near your stand and if there is adequate space for them to park. If the site you are planning is not near a main route, you have to see if there are secondary roads that are of easy access.

People have to be able to find your market and the

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