Expand Your Ag Market at Kentucky Retail Workshop

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky Proud, the official marketing program of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, is hosting a one-day workshop designed to help Kentucky producers expand their reach and effectively market agricultural products.

The Retail Readiness workshop is being offered in partnership with the Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) and the University of Kentucky’s MarketReady Producer Training Program.

“This one-day workshop for Kentucky agriculture producers is invaluable,” Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “Creating pathways to help Kentucky producers develop a plan for a larger share of the market benefits the producer and our state because agriculture is economic development.”

Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST on March 31 in Lexington, the workshop will feature an overview of current marketing trends, available funding opportunities, peer-to-peer panels, product reviews, and guidance from local retailers. Attendees will also participate in hands-on sessions focused on creating marketing plans tailored to their products.

The program is particularly aimed at emerging producers who have seen success in direct sales and are exploring retail or wholesale opportunities. Participants will have the chance to learn from fellow agricultural producers who have successfully entered the retail market, gaining insight into product placement, new vendor processes, and necessary safety certifications.

Up to three products can be anonymously submitted for review by mass retailers, specialty stores, and farm markets, allowing participants to receive coaching and feedback on marketability and visual appeal.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with practical marketing support and strategies to guide their business growth.

The $15 session will take place at the Fayette County Extension Office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington, and includes lunch. Producers can register digitally through this link: Retail Readiness Marketing Workshop Registration.

Photo Credit: kentucky-proud