Market a Food Product
Getting a consumer to notice a new food product can be difficult. One way to connect with the public is through marketing. By using certain tactics, you can develop a clear business model and a flourishing business for your food product in no time.
Instructions
1. Write a business plan. This will give you with a clear idea of your goals for your food product as well as provide a way to organize and research your ideas. In general, a business plan should include: an executive summary, description of the food product, goals, objectives, an assessment of the market, financial statements and personal qualifications.
2. Set up a separate email account where people can contact you specifically about your food product. Use the product name for the email address so you can be easily identified. This email should be the only one used when dealing with business related to your food product.
3. Research trademark laws online to see what the requirements are for your area. In order to protect your product against trademark infringement, it has to be trademarked through federal, state or common law.
4. Place a small "TM" in superscript on your food product as a temporary trademark while waiting for approval. This can protect you against infringement.
5. Research the FDA's regulations when selling food products. Some products, such as pickled and meat items, may have to undergo a scheduled process by which the product is evaluated for its PH levels and temperature. This will also help you assess the type of packaging and storage that is best for your product.
6. Write a marketing plan. This plan will outline specific elements about your food product, such as the "four P's": Product, Price, Promotion and Place. In this plan you will pick a price for your product, what local channels you can use to promote it and where the product is going to be sold. The plan should also include short-term and long-term goals.
7. Conduct market research in the intended area where you will sell your food product. Assess your competition and see what you can tweak and adjust in your plan. Knowing your competition provides the best way to know what to offer your consumers and stay on top in your marketing efforts.
8. Package your food and get it ready for sale. Make sure you have enough packaging materials, business cards and sufficient storage for large orders.
9. Start with a test promotion by advertising in your local newspaper, on community websites or at local stores. Include a comment card with your email so you can get feedback about the product. Test marketing is not only a great way to assess the interest in and response to your food product--it can help you to start small if you do not have sufficient capital.
10. Go to local specialty stores and present your business plan and food samples. Make sure your product is professionally packaged and includes your contact information.
11. Continue to sell your products through stores and local resources. Once the business expands, consider setting up a website and hiring a staff.
