Recap: 2026 Retail Readiness Marketing Workshop

Last week, we hosted a Retail Readiness Marketing Workshop with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Center for Agriculture & Rural Development. At this workshop, food and farm producers gained essential insights into marketing and selling their products in retail spaces. This workshop, now in its second year, was held at the Fayette County Cooperative Extension Office. The workshop covered marketing trends, food safety marketing planning, and story development. The workshop featured expert panelists from leading farms, retailers, and technical assistance organizations.   

This workshop included a Buy Local Lunch and the opportunity to connect with industry professionals to build valuable relationships. Additionally, attendees could submit up to two products to be reviewed anonymously by mass retailers, specialty retailers, and farm retail markets for coaching and feedback on the overall marketability and attractiveness of their items. The product evaluation results will be shared with participating farm and food producers later this week.  

“We had an astounding turnout at the one-day workshop for Kentucky agriculture producers,” Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “Agriculture is economic development and creating pathways to help our producers develop a plan for a larger market share benefits both the producers and the state.” 

The workshop served as a stepping stone for producers preparing for a Kentucky Proud Vendor Expo taking place Sept. 18, 2026, at the Shelbyville Conference Center. The expo will provide an exclusive buyer event. for emerging Kentucky Proud retail-ready members. 

View some of the workshop photos here.