In the business world, the difference between the cost of materials and labour to produce a product, and the selling price of that product is call the value added. In the farming community, the farmer rarely sells his/her commodities, such as grain, directly to the consumer. Instead the commodity goes through value adding. This is one reason why, for example that when beef or pork prices are down for the farmer, the consumer does not see this translate into lower food prices.

With the down turn of most farming commodities, many farmers are looking for ways to increase their profits. This has translated into some farmers adding value to their commodities, producing a product that consumers can buy, usually directly from the farmer. This is a new way of marketing for farmers and the Canadian Farm Business Management Council is offering workshops throughout the country to assist farmers with adding value. The title of the workshop is “Value Plus Your Path to Farm Success” and is offered in three venues throughout Canada. The only workshop being held in Ontario is at Mitchell District High School and is being sponsored by the Rural Business Routes class of the school. According their brochure: “This workshop will show you how to add value to your products, secure new markets and boost your financial results.”

As the farm’s net profits (if there are any profits) dwindle, farmers are looking for different ways to sell their commodities. Commodities go through a roller coaster ride, which does not offer any security to the farm income. Value adding however, it a daunting task and I think that this workshop would be very valuable for anyone who is looking for an alternative. If my schedule permits, I will be registering for the workshop. For more information, including registering visit:

http://ruralbusinessroutes.mitchellonline.ca/