Cook County Dairy Market Survey and Business Plan

Abstract

The University of Minnesota Duluth Labovitz School’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) was requested to assist Cook County to evaluate the idea of developing a small sustainable dairy. Two surveys were designed and implemented in Cook County: A survey of demand—Cook County Dairy Market Survey (Customers) featuring a cash-drawing incentive for participation, and a survey of potential distributors—Cook County Dairy Market Survey (Businesses). Data were collected during the fall of 2006 with analysis completed in early 2007. ... In summary there appears to be a viable business opportunity in Cook County for a dairy of this description, but major startup hurdles must be overcome. Once large enough sales and distribution are established, the cooperative can be a valuable contributor to the Cook County economy.