I recently had the privilege of attending the 1st Arkansas Agritourism Association Meeting. Agritourism is made up of a wide range of experiences connected, but not limited to farming, lodging, meals and even making of food products. Homesteads, buffalo farms, cheese making, orchards, vegetable gardens or rice mills are just some of the agricultural endeavors in the state.
The Association along with the industry is at an incredibly exciting time. There is a strong desire to experience and a desire to offer those experiences. On February 26, 2018, the Arkansas Agritourism Association was formed with the goal of connecting and establishing a network of agricultural ventures.
Agriculture is the largest industry in the state of Arkansas. “The Natural State” has so much to offer in the way of outdoors. There are 52 state parks scattered throughout Arkansas along with many cities and towns who are tourist destinations. All in all, this makes tourism the second largest industry in Arkansas. Making opportunities by combining the two industries an outstanding asset for our great state.
To strengthen the whole we must look at maximizing the pieces. We can do this by working together to learn, brainstorm, implement, and network.
Branding is extremely important for anyone who has a business. This is increasingly more important in the age of social media.
P. Allen Smith has become a dear friend to the Me & McGee Market family and for someone who has accomplished so much has exemplified genuineness. As a master marketer, I felt compelled to share some of his wisdom in the hopes of helping.
Here are my takeaways from Allens talk.
1. Authenticity
“Be yourself, Everyone else is already taken” often credited to Oscar Wilde
Being authentic allows one to create their own story, their own brand. Originality is the makeup of extraordinary, therefore every farm, market, event center, ranch, or homestead needs to be themselves. The best version of themselves, but themselves.
2. Products
“A product for everybody is a product for nobody”
A product in this sense is anything that is transferred to a consumer. Meaning a service, experience, content or a tangible good. This very much plays onto authenticity and the quality is in large part building trust. Consistently deliver by meeting or exceeding expectations play into the most powerful brand builder – word of mouth.
3. Hospitality
While every one of these topics can be expanded on infinitely, mastering hospitality will afford your business patience by patrons. When businesses care for those they serve they are more likely to be given a pass, not if, but when mistakes are made.
The virtues of hospitality are simple – kindness, service and caring. Little things like listening, smiling and remembering names go such a long way with building rapport.
To all of those who are in agriculture, you are the backbone of our great state. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Help us continue the process of getting better at all we do.