MARKETING SERVICES
Domestic Sales and Market Development assists Virginia's producers and processors in marketing their products throughout the U.S. and Eastern Canada.
Activities include:
- locating buyers,
- coordinating and hosting production area tours for potential buyers,
- participating in industry trade shows,
- developing the state Farmers Market System,
- assisting 17 commodity boards in conducting their programs,
- implementing retail promotions where Virginia products are the focus,
- providing marketing information, and
- assisting in efforts to achieve more orderly and efficient marketing
Agricultural Marketing - Regional marketing development managers are located in six designated regions of the state to provide assistance in marketing commodities and enhancing agricultural economic development within those regions. Regional managers provide assistance, advice and counsel to agricultural producers, industry representatives, and organizations through individual consultations, public presentations, newsletters, and the media in order to enhance and influence marketing efforts. (see contacts)
National Marketing Assistance - Two marketing representatives develop markets for Virginia agricultural products in the Mid-Atlantic, South, Midwest, Northeast and Eastern Canada. They assist producers and processors in their sales efforts by locating buyers, merchandisers and corporate executives to initiate sales leads, provide producer information, crop status reports and pertinent industry information. The Marketing Representatives also provide information and advice through consultations, group presentations and written reports to producers and industry organizations. (see contacts) 
Agricultural Commodity Boards - Established by state legislation, they provide marketing, education and research assistance to their respective industries.
Regional Shipping Point Farmers Market System - Four state-owned, private-sector operated markets provide marketing services for smaller volume fruit and vegetable producers to move product to retail grocery and institutional buyers.
Retail/Wholesale Buyer Publications