In this episode, we talk to Trevor Rose, the general manager of Milk Barn Creamery in Morgan, Utah. Trevor shares the fascinating history of his family's five-generation dairy farm and how they transitioned to selling raw milk and other dairy products directly to consumers. He discusses the challenges of running a small farm business, their unique dairy farming practices, and the growth of their cheese and ice cream production. Trevor also highlights their marketing strategies, including the importance of social media and e-commerce, as well as the close-knit family dynamic that drives their business. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in the journey of a family-owned dairy farm and creamery.
Key Takeaways:
Historical Transition: The Rose family transitioned their dairy farm from commercial dairy farming to direct-to-consumer raw milk sales following changes in state laws that allowed for such sales.
Overcoming Initial Challenges: Trevor discussed the initial financial challenges of running a small-scale dairy farm and how they leveraged e-commerce and remote pickup locations to increase their customer base and visibility.
Product Diversification: The introduction of artisan cheeses and ice cream significantly boosted the profitability and customer base of Milk Barn Creamery. Hiring a cheesemonger and winning the Best in State award for their ice cream were pivotal moments.
Family and Community Involvement: The strong involvement of family members in the business and the support from the local community played a crucial role in their success. The ice cream shop, in particular, became a social hub for the community.
Marketing Strategies: Effective use of social media, managed by Trevor's wife McKinley, helped grow their business by highlighting the farm's story and products.
Future Vision: Milk Barn Creamery's ambitious plans for expansion include exploring wholesale opportunities for their cheese and creating a unique agro-tourism experience that blends tradition with innovation.
Lessons Learned: Trevor emphasized the importance of passion and hard work in building and sustaining a successful business and the value of staying true to their roots while innovating.
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