Our Market Tours are an exclusive, behind-the-scenes insight into the world of fresh produce. Consider it your special invitation into the heart and soul of Minifarms.
When your fresh fruit and veg shows up at your doorstep, ready to enjoy, do you ever think about the hard work that led to that moment?
On a curated two-hour tour of the markets, Pod Leaders learn about the ins and outs of the industry from the farmers, growers, and providores themselves.
They get to experience the vibrant, busy market floor, see and touch the produce, and shake hands with the hard-working people that make it all possible – including our providore, who chooses our produce day in and day out and liaises with our farmers.
The farmers themselves explain the difference between a Grade A and Grade F apple, and why some are yellow on one side and red on the other.
They teach us about the aesthetics of a zucchini and how size alone can dictate consumer interest, and hence the price we all pay.
They answer your questions, explain misconceptions, and reveal the reality behind what you see on the supermarket shelves.
At the end of the day, Leaders walk away with a deeper understanding of how the market works, what their Minifarms customers want, and therefore why we make the business decisions that we do.
But most importantly, they get to appreciate the work of the farmers, who tell their backstories, speak of the highs and lows, the vulnerability, and the passion.
You’ll hear about the damage caused by droughts and floods, of being burnt by the big supermarkets, and of having perfectly good produce be rejected – set back, after set back.
We even touch on the purchasing and packing process, which allows Leaders to consider why certain business decisions are made based on the margin of error that exists when dealing with large volumes of produce.
If you’ve ever had a Member ask why something costs as much as it does, or looks a certain way, then this tour will equip you with the knowledge you need to answer these questions.
It’s a valuable insight into why we choose to support farmers – when you hear from them firsthand, you’ll be reminded of the importance more so than ever.
Market Tours aren’t compulsory, but they are incredibly important. We hold them every six months or so, and if you’re yet to join, we look forward to welcoming you in the future.