Adding Value and Personalizing Your Services

As you consider your enterprise and the two or three key things that will be your main selling points, consider the following ideas as options that add the extra value your clients may be seeking. Applying these techniques may mean the difference between your farm or ranch getting the customer and your potential client going elsewhere.

Guests remember the little things, and happy customers will return. They'll also tell their friends and family about your farm or ranch. You can add value to your guests' experiences by offering them refreshments. Select products that compliment what you produce on your farm or ranch, such as cheese samples, fresh bread, apple juice, or beef jerky.

You can also distribute recipe pamphlets, pins, posters, and other promotional items. Many commodity commissions and agricultural trade organizations in California already have promotional items that are available free of charge or at a nominal cost.

With time and creativity, you can expand your recreation enterprise. Consider fun, entertaining activities such as contests, adult and children's classes, or games ranging from guessing how many apples are in a barrel to horseshoe throwing and bake-offs. Children love straw mazes, pumpkin painting and scarecrow making. Adults may enjoy historic displays or classes on painting or herbs. Fortunately, visitors do not need to be entertained at every moment. Make time for them to rest and relax. Remember that some guests are simply looking for an escape from their busy routines. The better you profile the customer you want to attract, the easier it will be to create appropriate activities for your guests.

This Fact Sheet was adapted by Desmond Jolly, Cooperative Extension agricultural economist and director, UC Small Farm Program, from the Agri-tourism Workgroup and Resources, Oregon Department of Agriculture.

Back to Fact Sheets