Blog Post #6 {Business Operation Plans}
Reusable Produce Bags
Materials:
Total Costs:
Materials $44.47
Per Bag $3.14
Most of these materials take 2-4 weeks to arrive, but include free shipping. Due to the fact that materials can take upwards of a month to arrive, I would order a larger amount since I have an ample amount of storage space, and would not want to run out of supplies.
The peak demand times of the year are summer and early fall as most produce is in season and harvested during these months. Making sure there is enough inventory is definitely an important subject to address.
I will be working with my mom to create these bags and we will be manufacturing them between the hours of 7-9 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. In two hours, we can produce 6 bags, or 18 bags per week together (6x3=18 bags per week). I will also manufacture bags from 12-4 Saturdays producing a total of 12 bags per week. This equals 30 bags per week combined.
The selling will initially take place online on local buy and sell sites, therefor licences and permits are not required. There are also no fees associated with selling on local buy and sell sites.
My vision is to sell these bags at the local farmers market (Mill Market) to target my key demographic. This is a busy market that “connects Northern Ontario farmer to local consumers strengthening the local food economy and nurturing healthy communities.” Their fee is:
Saturday Day Vendor: $50 + HST
Total: $60.50
This is over the budgeted start-up amount for this venture.
An advantage to selling at the local farmers market is the lack of competition. Currently there are no vendors that are selling reusable produce bags. By entering this market with my complementary product, I feel my business venture will be successful and a great addition to the local marketplace.
