Meat Success Podcast - From Desert Farming to Direct-to-Consumer Success: The White Barn Beef Story

In a recent episode of the ChopLocal podcast, host Katie Olthoff sat down with Candice from White Barn Beef, located in Portal, Arizona. They discussed everything from farming in the desert to building a direct-to-consumer beef business amid a global pandemic.

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A Unique Farming Setup

Candice and her husband, Jason, operate their farm in the high desert of southeast Arizona, near the New Mexico border. While it might seem improbable to raise crops like alfalfa and corn in this arid environment, the couple's innovative approach ensures their cattle are well-fed despite the challenges. This setup is not common in the Southwest, where large ranches typically dominate the landscape.

The Evolution of White Barn Beef

Candice shares an inspiring tale of resilience and adaptation. Their transition from traditional farming techniques was fueled by necessity when manual labor costs soared amid disease challenges. Joining the dots between farming and cattle, Jason envisioned a streamlined operation where farm products would be efficiently utilized to feed their cattle. This dream led to the establishment of feed pens and a thriving cattle business, ultimately opening doors to direct-to-consumer sales.

Navigating Challenges During COVID-19

The pandemic was a turning point for White Barn Beef. As the world grappled with food shortages, Candice took to Facebook to offer her surplus beef to the community, driving tremendous interest. This support marked the beginning of their direct-to-consumer journey, leveraging digital platforms to connect directly with customers. What started with social media messages blossomed into a dependable online business.

Entering the Farmers Market Scene

It wasn't until 2023 that Candice took her products to farmers markets. Initially intimidated by the idea, she soon embraced the opportunity to connect with buyers face-to-face. By engaging directly with consumers and showcasing the exceptional quality of their beef, Candice found that sales soared. Her innovative "beef wagon," equipped with freezers, became a staple at local markets, bridging the gap between rural Arizona and urban consumers.

Expanding through E-commerce

Candice's foray into e-commerce further expanded her reach. Partnering with ChopLocal, she set up an online store that facilitated hassle-free customer transactions. This shift also empowered her to start shipping beef across Arizona and Southern California, tapping into new markets and significantly boosting sales.

Value-Added Products and New Ventures

Looking to the future, Candice plans to enhance her offerings with value-added products. Responding to customer demand, she's exploring beef tallow and freeze-dried pet treats, diversifying her product line. These new ventures reflect White Barn Beef’s ongoing commitment to utilizing every part of their farm's output creatively and sustainably.

Building a Brand Through Storytelling

Candice emphasizes the power of storytelling in her marketing strategy. Social media has played an indispensable role in showcasing farm life, her family's involvement, and the care they dedicate to raising their cattle. By inviting customers into their world, White Barn Beef creates authentic connections that resonate with buyers seeking transparency and quality.

Conclusion

Candice's story is a testament to adaptability, community, and resilience. White Barn Beef exemplifies how family-run farms can thrive by embracing innovation, community engagement, and direct customer relationships. The business continues to grow, meeting new challenges with a steadfast commitment to quality and sustainability. As Candice looks ahead to new projects in 2025, the future of White Barn Beef seems as bright as ever. Join us in celebrating the success and vision of this remarkable farm.