What is a Farm Stop?

A farm stop is a retail store run for and by local farmers. Instead of the traditional farmers market (where farmers must be present weekly), a farm stop acts as a shared retail space where multiple farms can sell their products under one roof.

  • Customers shop in one location for a wide variety of local goods.
  • Farmers drop off products on their schedule and don’t have to staff a booth.
  • The farm stop manages sales, staffing, payment collection systems (credit card and benefit programs like SNAP and Farmer's Market Benefits) and marketing.
  • The goal is to make local food more accessible while creating a sustainable outlet for farmers.

*Please Note: To sell food through a retail business, the product must be:

  • Made in a kitchen that is inspected and licensed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services or a local health agency.
  • Processed according to federal Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), as Missouri has adopted federal food processing regulations. 

Cottage law will not extend to us in selling your goods. If you are interested in renting a commercial kitchen I would recommend reaching out to a local church, senior center, restaurant that has a deemed "inspected kitchen" in order to inquire about preparing/baking in their facility. 

Consignment Model (most common for farm stops)

Example:

  • You set your eggs at $5/dozen.
  • Farm stop keeps 30% ($1.80).
  • You receive $3.20 per dozen sold.

Things to know:

  • Unsold items may be returned, donated, discounted, or composted — this is determined ahead of time with each farmer.
  • Consignment payouts are typically monthly.

Wholesale Model

Example:

  • Farm stop agrees to pay $2.50/dozen eggs wholesale.
  • They sell to customers at $5/dozen and keep the retail margin.

Things to know: 

Wholesale prices are usually 30–50% lower than retail.

  • Less control over final retail pricing.