Take 5: Becoming Georgia Grown

Originally published in the Sept. 4, 2013, issue

 

1. How is the new and improved Georgia Grown program coming along?

The Georgia Grown program is growing at a riveting pace. Since the revitalized program began in January 2012, we received more than 250 paying members, 700 website listings and several major retail, restaurant and corporate partnerships. We launched the inaugural Georgia Grown Magazine, hosted two Georgia Grown Symposiums and produced eight farmer showcases across the state.

 

2. How does the Georgia Grown logo add value to products?

Our revamped Georgia Grown logo was designed to identify products grown or produced in Georgia. We hope consumers become familiar with the logo and the quality it represents. Consumers look to purchase locally grown products and are willing to pay more for agricultural items produced by their community. However, consumers are often unable to identify locally grown products when grocery shopping. A shopper may want Georgia-grown blueberries, but if blueberries are not identified as being local, the shopper cannot make an informed purchasing decision.

3. Who are the members featured in the Market Bulletin each issue?

These are proud Georgia Grown members that joined at the gold level or higher. In order to raise revenue for Georgia Grown and provide a high level of service to our members, the program charges membership fees at multiple levels. You can receive a basic membership, which gives you full rights to use the logo on all of your Georgia-grown products, for only $100 a year. With higher levels of membership you can receive a professionally designed advertising package, an ad in Georgia Grown Magazine, sponsorship of special events and a profile featuring your farm or company in the Market Bulletin and the Georgia Grown e-newsletter. 

4. Tell us about the new Georgia Grown building at the Georgia National Fairgrounds.

The Department was excited to premiere the Georgia Grown Building at the Georgia National Fair in Perry last October. The purpose of the building is to gather agriculture-related products and businesses from Georgia into one location to promote agriculture and educate the public about the products available from Georgia. The building will have exciting exhibits and a Georgia Grown pavilion where visitors can purchase wonderful products made right here in Georgia.  

5. Other than using the logo, how can farms and agribusinesses promote their Georgia Grown membership?

The Georgia Grown program hosts events throughout the year. Participating is a great way to raise awareness of your Georgia Grown products. If you are a small company or producer, farmers markets are great to get the word out about your products and increase sales. If you are a large company, you can raise your Georgia Grown profile by advertising in the magazine and including the logo in your website and media promotions.

Matthew Kulinski is the deputy director of marketing for the Georgia Department ofAgriculture.