Online farm produce ordering for local food businesses

Small food businesses, caterers, meal-kit makers and independent shops that want to order from several growers in one place.

You take a margin on each order, or charge growers a commission. Some hubs add a small delivery or handling fee.

• Organising and clear communication
• Basic website or online order tools
• Building trust with growers and buyers
• Bookkeeping

• Whether you take ownership of the goods or only broker them, as this can change your insurance, food registration and GST position, so check with an accountant
• Council registration and food safety rules if you store or repack produce, and approval if you run the business from home
• Spoilage and delivery delays, which can lose customers quickly
• Clear agreements with growers about quality, rejected goods and payment timing
• Public liability and product liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on the ordering tools you use, any storage or packing needs and insurance. Most of the work is done from home.

Check whether you take ownership of the goods or only broker them, as this can change your insurance, food registration and GST position. Also check council registration and food safety rules if you store or repack produce, and approval for home-based work.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many growers and food businesses you connect. Spoilage and delivery delays can lose customers quickly, so clear agreements with growers matter.