The recent AFRDS survey showed that selling popular consumer items consistently yields the best results compared to other types of fundraising drives.

That being said, we know that price is often a consideration.  If at all possible, consider keeping the consumer price below $5.00 per item.  You’ll want to make sure the product is high quality and represents a sensible image choice for your organization.   (That’s yet another reason why pet treats are such a natural choice for 4-H.)

Delivery is also an important consideration.  Does the product require refrigeration?  Is it perishable?  You may want to be sure that all participants understand how important it is that the product be delivered in the best possible manner so customers are pleased with their purchase and support. 

An order form sale will almost always be the “backbone” of a successful product sale fundraiser.  If you have motivated sellers and families, each one can tap into their own personal community of friends, family, neighbors, and even co-workers who truly want to support that particular child’s goals.

Direct sales can provide efficient and quick sales, especially if they are well planned and sellers are coached on enthusiastically asking customers to buy.  Often a table set up in front of a grocery store, farmer’s market, or pet store on a Saturday morning can result in good sales if members are outgoing and not timid about asking a customer to buy.  Of course, it is critical that an adult volunteer always accompany members at direct sales.

4-H Events like expos, fairs, and shows provide great opportunities for members to set up a booth for a direct sale.  Keep in mind, however,  people are often distracted by their own participation and may not take the time to stop, talk and buy.  Big events may seem like a great way to sell a lot of product, but we have found the exposure can be valuable, but sales are disappointing in many cases.  These opportunities just don’t measure up to the focus of an order form sale where members can personally share their goals.  We like to say, “it’s all about the ‘ask’.”

The best possible fundraising campaign is a combination of both the order form sale with direct sales planned for after product delivery.  This strategy enables each seller to contact their own group of supporters.  Super sellers and really motivated kids and clubs can then add on extra product onto the initial order to cover upcoming, planned direct sales to boost sales.