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A fun way to directly experience the solopreneur and small business ecosystem? Visit one of the local farmers and street markets in your area. I enjoy browsing and chatting with the vendors offering a range of products including art, jewelry, gourmet food, gift ideas, holistic and baked goods. Many are niche products that serve particular customer needs. What stands out for me is the instructive and idea generating opportunities for the new entrepreneur and established business owner to see sales, marketing, promotional and distribution practices in action.
- Direct selling and engaging customers to stop at their stand and make a purchase with the essential opportunity for direct customer feedback
- Merchants ready with their product value statements aka “elevator speeches” indicating the value and uniqueness they offer customers
- Product displays and samples to attract customers
- Point of purchase signage and print materials
- Vendors with brick and mortar locations using street market exposure to grow their customer following
- Potential for customer contact email lists
- Merchant accounts to ease credit card payment processing