317 The Farm Stop Model: How This Ann Arbor Store Sells Local Food 7 Days a Week

My Digital Farmer Podcast

What would happen if you merged a grocery store and a farmers market—and gave small farms a seven-day-a-week sales channel that actually pays them what they’re worth?

In today’s episode, I interview Alex Blume, Marketing Manager for Argus Farm Stop, a mission-driven retail concept based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that’s redefining how local food gets sold. Their innovative “farm stop” model helps small and mid-sized farms grow by giving them access to retail space 7 days a week—without the staffing or wholesale markups.

Alex shares how the consignment model works, how they support over 250 producers, and the key marketing strategies they use to build customer loyalty, increase store visits, and grow the local food economy. We also dig into his best advice for small farmers looking to improve their marketing—without burning out.

If you’re a local food lover, a farm marketer, or someone looking for a replicable retail model that actually works, this episode will stretch your thinking in the best way.

Podcast Guest:

Alex Blume, Marketing Director for Argus Farm Stop

Alex Blume is the Marketing Manager for Argus Farm Stop, a 7-day a week market stocked exclusively with products from local farmers and producers. Alex has been leading the marketing team at Argus Farm Stop going on two years now, and has been with Argus Farm Stop since 2022. Before that, Alex worked on the Whitney Farmstead, a regenerative ranching and maple sugaring farm in Ann Arbor. Alex comes originally from Dallas, Texas, where he worked in the local music industry as a promoter after received a double major in Music and Marketing at Southern Methodist University. In his work, Alex tries to increase the reach and accessibility of local produce and products that strengthen the community around us to a wider and more diverse audience.

Argus Farm Stop website: https://www.argusfarmstop.com

Follow them on Instagram: @argusfarmstop

Podcast Sponsors: Local Line:

Local Line is my preferred e-commerce platform for farmers. Are you looking for a new solution for your farm? I can't recommend it enough. Easy-to-use inventory management, great customer service, continuous improvement, and a culture dedicated to equipping farmers with marketing expertise. Local Line is offering a free premium feature for free for one year on top of your paid subscription. Claim your discount by signing up for a Local Line account today and using the coupon code: MDF2025. Head to my special affiliate link to get started: www.mydigitalfarmer.com/localline

Farm Marketing School:

Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! Farm Marketing School is my step-by-step system for building a profitable farm marketing plan. Inside, you'll get access to bite-sized marketing projects like:

• 📆 Creating a promotion calendar that drives consistent sales
• 🛠️ Setting up & optimizing your Google Business Profile
• 📧 Writing high-converting emails (nurture, promotions, onboarding)
• 🗣️ Collecting & using customer testimonials effectively
• 🔍 Auditing & improving your sales funnel
• 💬 Monthly live coaching calls for answers to your burning questions

Each project includes a workshop and step-by-step plan so you can take action and see results without the overwhelm. Join here: 👉 www.mydigitalfarmer.com/fms (Cancel anytime!)

Helpful Links Mentioned in This Episode

Argus Farm Stop offers free monthly webinars and an annual conference if you're looking to replicate their model. To learn more, visit their website.

What email provider do I use? I recommend Kit.com (formerly ConvertKit.com) -- it is easy to use, powerful, and getting better every year. It also integrates with most e-commerce providers and tools. Use my affiliate link!

📲 Follow me on Instagram: @mydigitalfarmer

📬 Join My Email List: Get weekly farm marketing tips delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up at www.mydigitalfarmer.com/subscribe.

🌱 Want more farm marketing strategies? Visit my full resource library at www.mydigitalfarmer.com

💛 Support the Podcast:

Love the My Digital Farmer Podcast? You can help keep the show going!

• Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.
• ⭐️ Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts—it helps other farmers find the show.
• Share this episode with a fellow farmer or small business owner.