If a client asks where to buy some chicks so they can start gathering eggs in the backyard, renting may be a better option. Yes, renting. Rent the Chicken was launched in 2013 and has been expanding since. The service offers two to four layers, feed, a waterer and a coop for a specified rental period. When the time is up, its personnel pick things up.
Source: John Deere’s The Furrow, May 2017.
The couple thought their market would be limited to trendy urbanites who wanted to try raising backyard chickens. They quickly found out that there was a much broader interest. It included everyone from young college graduates to retirees who wanted a few chickens for their grandchildren. The only thing their customers have in common is a desire to know where their food comes from.
INSIGHTS: With affiliates nationwide, Rent the Chicken, offers an easy test to determine if backyard chicken-raising is for someone. It could also offer relationship building opportunities for retail associates.