Consumer Preference Survey of Health Food Store Customers

Abstract

Organizations and individuals in the Hubbard County area of west central Minnesota saw the growing and marketing of certified organic specialty crops as an ideal way of rejuvenating a lagging rural economy. The group gained funding from the Northwest Initiative Fund to investigate the market potential of selected products. The Natural Resources Research Institute Business Group of the University of Minnesota, Duluth was retained to assist in designing a survey of current health food store customers. The purpose of the survey was to gain practical insights into the shopping and food preferences of current customers. This information is to be used in deciding which products merit immediate attention for development. It will also be helpful in establishing an effective marketing process.