Brands in the food space are providing digital solutions for local farmers
Trend - Brands are offering new "farm-to-phone" apps that allow consumers to purchase fresh produce from local farmers. This is especially useful as many farmers markets and other avenues of shopping were affected by the pandemic.
Insight - Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are emphasizing the need to support local economies, especially in light of the many closures of local businesses. Driven by a sense of community and compassion, many consumers are opting to purchase essential goods from local businesses, allowing them to feel "good" about supporting independent businesses.
Insight - Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are emphasizing the need to support local economies, especially in light of the many closures of local businesses. Driven by a sense of community and compassion, many consumers are opting to purchase essential goods from local businesses, allowing them to feel "good" about supporting independent businesses.
Workshop Question - How can your brand help support local economies?
Trend Themes
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Farm-to-phone Apps — Brands are offering farm-to-phone apps that allow consumers to purchase fresh produce from local farmers, emphasizing the need to support local economies.
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Virtual Farmers' Market Apps — Virtual farmers' market apps are being introduced to support suppliers and farmers during a difficult time, offering a streamlined way to improve or launch e-commerce solutions.
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Farmer-supporting E-commerce Technologies — E-commerce solutions that allow customers to pre-order produce and artisanal products online are increasing in demand since the onset of the pandemic and offer features to take the burden away from farmers.
Industry Implications
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Agriculture/food Production — Companies can explore farm-to-phone apps and e-commerce solutions to empower local farmers and growers, improve or launch e-commerce solutions and strengthen local food systems.
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Food Delivery/service — Companies can tap into virtual farmers' market apps to streamline food delivery services and connect suppliers and farmers with customers during a difficult time.
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Social Impact/community Building — Companies can leverage these trends to raise awareness and support organizations that help empower farmers and connect communities in need.
