Diverse, Integrated Family Farms are Positioned for Success

The Grower & The Economist

Guest expert, Jeff Hake joins The Grower and The Economist to share his experience working in a multi-generational, multi-business, family farming and food production business. Funks Grove Heritage Fruits & Grains is a specialty fruits and grains farm on historic Route 66 in central Illinois, using organic practices. Funks Grove Pure Maple Syrup sells their own maple syrup along with pancake mixes from the farm, all made in their commercial kitchen. These family businesses are vertically and horizontal integrated and highlight how diversification and product exploration can continue to help the businesses evolve and grow. Jeff reports that even with increasing prices and input shortages the Funk family enterprises are well positioned to manage the current challenges, invest in the community, and support local food access.

Don't miss the blog post referenced in the podcast. One thousand small chains