Hispanic Farmers' Co-op Expands Into Retail; Sustains Farmland and Promotes Economic Growth

Sept. 29, 2011 - PRLog -- The Farmers On The Move cooperative of Michigan (FOTM) announced the launch of a comprehensive marketing program that will enable its members to sell their locally grown blueberries, peppers, and other fresh produce in area retail markets this spring.

“There is a growing consumer interest in local produce, especially from smaller family farms,” says Farmers On The Move president Filiberto Villa. “However, we knew that our members didn’t have the resources to effectively market their products alone. This expansion into retail offers a viable economic development model to keep our members farming, preserve Michigan’s farmland, and to provide consumers the fresh, local produce they seek.”

Although Farmers On The Move was founded to build on the strengths of Hispanic farmers in Michigan and to promote their economic development, membership is open to farmers of all ethnic backgrounds. The cooperative is always seeking new members; further information and a membership application is available at farmersonthemove.com.

Retailers will find many advantages to working with the cooperative, including quality assurance, full product traceability, and a willingness to accommodate special fresh or processed market requests while delivering unique branded items.

Founded in 2009 with thirteen current members, Farmers On The Move is the only cooperative of Hispanic farmers in Michigan that is on a mission to provide locally grown, sustainable produce and preserve Michigan’s farmland. FOTM is always looking to expand its membership and provide more of its locally grown, quality produce to Michigan area retailers.