'Farmcation' is a startup that is using an Airbnb-style platform to help boost local farm tourism. Although more people are eating local than ever before, many small-scale farms still struggle to turn a profit. Farmcation aims to give farmers a secondary source of income by connecting them with city dwellers who want to arrange a visit.
Currently in its beta testing mode, Farmcation arranges for Bay Area visitors to travel to nearby farms to meet local farmers, take a tour of the facilities and enjoy a fresh picnic lunch. The idea is to help local farmers take in a new source of income, while also helping city dwellers understand the ins and outs of the agricultural industry. As co-founder of Farmcation Grace Lesser explains, "Ultimately, we seek to make our cultural relationship with food less transactional and more relational."
With a growing number of millennials interested in both food and experiential travel, Farmcation could prove to be influential in boosting local farm tourism.
Agricultural Travel Experiences
This Airbnb-Style Service Aims to Boost Local Farm Tourism
Trend Themes
1. Agricultural Tourism - Farmcation's Airbnb-style platform is tapping into the growing trend of agricultural tourism by connecting city dwellers with local farms.
2. Experiential Travel - Farmcation is capitalizing on the trend of experiential travel, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in farm life and learn about the agricultural industry.
3. Locavore Movement - Farmcation aligns with the locavore movement by connecting consumers with local farmers and promoting the importance of supporting small-scale farms.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - Farmcation's platform presents an innovative opportunity for the hospitality industry to expand its offerings to include farm destination experiences.
2. Agricultural Industry - Farmcation's platform provides a disruptive innovation opportunity for the agricultural industry to diversify income streams and bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.
3. Travel and Tourism Industry - Farmcation's unique travel experiences present an opportunity for the travel and tourism industry to cater to the growing demand for authentic, immersive experiences.