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Farmhouse Direct

The Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association (VFMA) is very excited to announce the arrival of Farmhouse Direct, an online marketplace where shoppers can purchase the same fabulous, local, seasonal produce available at farmers’ markets anytime, anywhere.

As you’ve probably noticed, shopping online has become more and more popular in recent years, a trend that’s predicted to continue as people become increasingly comfortable with this form of retailing. Farmhouse Direct brings this opportunity to our members, making it more convenient for shoppers to purchase your goods and broadening your customer base to a wider group.

  • an initiative developed and run by Australia Post
  • customers will be able to purchase direct from you, online at any time
  • you can establish and maintain your own online store
  • support is available if required
  • there are no upfront costs, only a transaction fee (charged at the time of sale)
  • you can access a national audience of online shoppers at no extra cost
  • prime position placement will be given to VFMA-accredited producers
  • immediate payment of an order being placed, funds will be transferred direct into your PayPal account
  • special offers will allow you to highlight excess stock, items close to expiry date etc.
  • special postage rates through Australia Post specifically for Farmhouse Direct
  • a reliable, proven distribution system
  • a national launch and ongoing marketing
  • an opportunity to test products
Over time, we hope that this enables you to increase production and with economies of scale, become more profitable.
 
Farmers’ markets and Farmhouse Direct
 
The personal experience of a farmers’ market is, of course, incomparable. Farmhouse Direct simply extends the opportunity to purchase from local producers into the convenience of online shopping. Rather than competing with farmers’ markets, this offers an attractive option for those who are unable to attend markets and/or require items between market dates.
 
Cross promotion between the online store and farmers’ markets will boost awareness for both outlets, attract new customers and increase the viability of our members’ businesses.
 
Register your interest here. Alternatively, click here for more details.

* Farmhouse Direct is an initiative of Australia Post with support from the VFMA.

* Australia Post is a Government Business Enterprise (GBE), with the Commonwealth of Australia as its sole shareholder.

*Australia Post is a fully self-funding business which is required to earn a commercial rate of return and a large share of profits are returned to the Commonwealth Government every year.  Australia Post receives no taxpayer funding.