(Chelsea Update would like to thank Shana Weddington for the information in this story.)
Since opening in late June of 2019, Agricole Farm Stop has actualized its mission to grow the local food economy and cultivate community by paying out $2,085,007+ directly to the farmers and artisans that make up the Agricole family of local food and craft producers.
We feel honored to be able to provide a year-round outlet for our Michigan producers and so blessed that our community has been so receptive and supportive of our mission.
The model for Agricole Farm Stop is based on Argus Farm Stop in Ann Arbor and is designed to offer producers a robust outlet for their goods and better profit margins than traditional markets. The producers set their own prices and receive 75 percent of the price they set. We believe robust agricultural strength and sustainability are central to the health of our entire community.
The Agricole Farm Stop business model has a three-fold purpose:
- To provide local farmers, artisans, and food producers an outlet at margins that encourage them to increase production, ultimately growing the local food economy in the area.
- To provide the community a year-round channel where they can buy locally grown, naturally grown produce from farms that they recognize.
- To cultivate community and education surrounding the benefits of consuming and purchasing food and goods that are produced locally. This includes providing employment opportunities that fosters a sense of purpose, belonging, and empowerment to the youth of our community.
The abandoned, historic Mack building located downtown Chelsea, was redeveloped in 2018 into the future home for Agricole Farm Stop’s market and cafe.
In summer 2020, Agricole Farm Stop expanded its mission by adding a community kitchen for food producer clients to grow their businesses. The Agricole Kitchen is currently the home of five licensed food producers that share the space regularly.
Agricole Farm Stop itself, now represents over 150 producers seasonally, including vegetable farmers, meat and dairy farmers, cheese makers, wild mushroom foragers, and a vast variety of other locally produced goods such as prepared foods, baked goods, canned goods, coffee, tea, honey and maple syrup.
The cafe features locally produced coffee, milk, sweeteners, and pastries and Agricole is committed to providing a community centered space where people gather, work, relax, and shop. As a mission-driven business, we value social good over profit and the success that this model has achieved in just two short years, has exceeded our expectations.
Thank you to our amazing community for your continued support.
