Tips of Selling Roasted Coffee Beans at a Farmers Market

Selling roasted coffee at farmers markets can be a great way to build relationships with customers and showcase your product! Here’s some advice specific to your questions:

1. Grinding Beans:

• Grinding in Advance: Many sellers grind beans in advance for customers who don’t have grinders at home. Pre-grinding can be efficient and ensures that you have bags of ground coffee ready to go for immediate sales. However, keep in mind that ground coffee can lose freshness faster, so aim to grind as close to the market day as possible and store it in airtight bags.

• On-site Grinding: If you want to showcase freshness and customization (grinding to specific coarseness like for French Press or espresso), grinding on-site is a great option. For on-site grinding:

  • Use a commercial-grade burr grinder like the Baratza Sette 270 or Mahlkönig for speed and precision. Burr grinders ensure consistent grind size, which can impact taste significantly.
  • Bring a small power generator or ensure there’s a reliable power source at the market for your grinder. Some markets offer access to electricity, but double-check with the organizers.

2. Handling Samples:

• Sample Method: Since you're focused on roasted beans and not selling drinks, you can still provide samples to showcase the flavor profile of your beans.
  • Aeropress: This is a great, compact option for on-site brewing. It’s quick, easy to clean, and you can brew individual cups, giving you more control over each sample.
  • French Press: Another portable option, ideal if you want to brew a small batch for multiple samples at once.
  • Kettle + Pour-over: Using a kettle and pour-over method like a V60 or Chemex can give you excellent control over the brewing process and offer customers a more artisanal experience.
  In each case, make sure you have access to hot water—either by bringing a portable electric kettle or using a camping stove to heat water on-site.

Additional Tips:

• Offer Different Grind Sizes: Some customers might want whole beans, while others might need coffee ground for specific brewing methods (French Press, pour-over, drip). Have these options ready to accommodate different preferences.

• Explain Your Roast Profiles: People at farmers markets appreciate understanding the story behind the product. Prepare signage or a simple way to explain your roasting process, flavor notes, and any origins you’re proud of.

• Packaging: Consider eco-friendly, resealable bags that lock in freshness. Labeling with roast dates and brewing tips will appeal to detail-oriented coffee buyers.