Honoring Ferndale Market: Recipient of the 2024 Promoter of the Year Award

John Peterson, of Ferndale Market (left), accepts the MTRPC 2024 Promoter of the Year Award, presented by MTRPC President, Loren Brey (right).

At the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association (MTGA) 2024 Summer Summit, Ferndale Market was honored with the prestigious Promoter of the Year Award by the Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council. This award is given to individuals, businesses, or organizations that promote turkey and turkey products in a positive way, and Ferndale Market has certainly set a high standard in this regard.

Founded in 1939 by Dale and Fern Peterson, Ferndale Market has been a family-owned business for three generations, committed to sustainable farming and high-quality turkey products. Transparency and traceability are at the heart of their operations, offering customers a direct link to the source of their food. The market’s open-door policy allows visitors to tour the farm and see firsthand the care and attention given to their turkeys.

Ferndale Market’s innovative promotion initiatives have significantly educated the public about the health benefits of turkey products and shared the story of Minnesota’s robust turkey industry. The market organizes various events and promotions celebrating turkey in all its forms. Their annual Turkey Fest, held during the fall season, draws hundreds of visitors who partake in farm tours, cooking demonstrations, and tastings of various turkey products. They have also introduced a summer event to encourage people to enjoy turkey beyond the Thanksgiving holiday.

John Peterson, Ferndale Market, introducing Turkey Trivia to school children.

Educational outreach is another crucial component of Ferndale Market’s strategy. They regularly collaborate with local schools and community organizations to provide educational workshops on farming, nutrition, and cooking with turkey. These programs aim to inspire the next generation of farmers and informed consumers, highlighting the role of agriculture in promoting health and environmental stewardship.

Leveraging modern technology, Ferndale Market reaches a broader audience through its website, which features an extensive collection of recipes, cooking tips, and informational articles about turkey farming. Their social media platforms engage customers, share stories from the farm, and promote upcoming events and special offers, extending their reach beyond the local community.

The success of Ferndale Market demonstrates the power of combining traditional farming values with innovative marketing strategies. By promoting turkey through educational events, unique product offerings, and community engagement, Ferndale Market has built a loyal customer base that appreciates quality and the story behind their food.

Congratulations to Ferndale Market for being selected as the 2024 Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council Promoter of the Year!