AgriBerry Farm celebrated its fifth year of business in 2013, but owners Anne and Chuck Geyer have been farming together for over 30 years. Innovators in their field, through AgriBerry, Anne and Chuck have created one of the nation’s only fruit and berry CSA’s. They’ve also set up a premier facility for training the next generation of growers.
AgriBerry is the most inspiring kind of business, focused on family, community, and the environment on every level. Their success is a testament to the quality product and exceptional service they provide at over a dozen retail locations. Truly a family business, they employ their three children, Pierson, Mary Claire, and Colleen, as well as Anne’s sister and niece. The Geyers continue to grow and improve their business, with new retail offerings (like their raspberry vinegar and frozen berries – available now) every season.
*Share, Like, or Comment on this post on the GrowRVA Facebook Page, and you could win a jar of Royalty Raspberry Jam, made from the unique purple raspberry! Winner announced on Facebook at 8 PM TODAY!*
1. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
We had been empowered to learn the berry business when in our 20’s and I wanted to pay it forward to other motivated young workers. Also, there were no other berry/fruit CSA’s and we thought the Richmond area was ideal for us to start our own farm with a CSA.
2. What’s something about your business that people might find surprising?
That we started the farm in 2008 with a $5,000 investment, the help of a $10,000 grant, 100 charter CSA members, and 10 acres of land to rent.
3. When you’re not vending at the farmers market, what do you spend your time doing?
Enjoying family, geocaching, adventuring and traveling to visit other fruit growers in North America.
4. Who are your favorite vendors to trade or buy from at the market?
Norwood Cottage Bakery, Goatacado, Grandma’s Garden, Haas Mushrooms, and Mugsy.
5. What’s your favorite item you sell at the market, and why?
Whichever berry is ripe at that time- but especially the first & last strawberry, first & last blackberry, first & last raspberry of the season.
(Personal Note/Pro-tip: I swirl a dollop of Royalty Raspberry jam into oat bran and top with toasted almonds for a hot, sustaining, nutritious breakfast. Seriously, it’s so good, I wish it were breakfast time RIGHT NOW.)
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