A growing movement of REKO Rings is ensuring that local produce, meats, and dairy remain accessible all year long through a blend of social media and “can-do” farming spirit.
Originally started in 2012, REKO rings have expanded globally, recently taking root in Fond du Lac and Sheboygan counties. Julie Schroeder, co-founder of the local rings and a farmer herself, describes the model as an efficient, virtual marketplace that eliminates the traditional risks of the trade.
“Essentially, the way I explain them are really efficient, online year-round farmer’s markets with a local in-person pickup,” Schroeder explained.
How Does It Work?
The process is streamlined through private Facebook groups. Every week, local vendors post their available inventory. Products range from local fruits and vegetable to baked goods and meat. Customers browse the offerings, comment directly on posts to order and prepay the farmers.
Products are picked up in a weekly drive-through style pickup that lasts only about 30 minutes. This model solves a major pain point for producers: the uncertainty of physical markets where weather or low attendance can result in wasted time and unsold goods.
“It’s really great for the farmer because everything is prepaid,” said Schroeder. “They’re not carting hundreds of dollars worth of things to a market for five, six hours and then hauling it all home.”
The REKO rings maintain standards to ensure the traditional heart of farmer’s markets remains intact. A primary rule is that everything sold must be grown, made, or produced by the vendor themselves.
