A
Sweet Deal
 Over two decades ago, a dream was
growing and desire was blossoming to
develop a farm that produced a pure,
high quality pork product. In the
heart of the Willamette Valley near
Eugene, Ore., Keith Cooper has
helped to fulfill this dream.
Starting in 1976 as a small
operation, selling to mainly family
friends, and neighbors, Sweet Briar
Farms has grown into a success
reaching consumers throughout the
region.
Sweet Briar Farms is a niche pork
production operation that is
predominantly Duroc, with a few
Hampshire/York crossbred sows. The
majority of the farm’s products,
including typical retails cuts and
10-12 sausage varieties, are
marketed at a local farmers market.
Recently, Keith has returned to
selling sausage as a vendor at big
name blues and country concerts.
“At a concert, we typically sell
three to four varieties of sausage,
as well as pulled pork sandwiches,”
said Keith. “These concerts attract
around 2,000-3,500 people. It is a
challenge to get into the system, as
so many companies are grandfathered
in, but we are making progress.”
With 25 sows, Sweet Briar Farms is
able to produce over 50 litters a
year with eight to ten piglets per
litter. By adding no enhancers or
antibiotics to feeds, their products
are popular at the local farmers
market. Keith spends his time as
primary caretaker of the hogs and
upholding strict management and
business practices.
“I always have to figure what the
customers want. Each week, I take
inventory of what I sold and compare
numbers year-to-date, as well as the
last four week average. This helps
me to determine what products are in
highest demand from consumers in the
current market,” Keith said.
Sweet Briar Farms’ main source of
advertising used to be strictly word
of mouth. However, they have started
expanding in the local market by
joining in a cooperative
advertisement for radio with local
grocery stores. To Keith, the
quality of his pork products is very
important, and getting the word out
is an important aspect of becoming
successful.
“I appreciate what the Pork Checkoff
does. It makes the general public
aware of the benefits of pork, and
the quality of pork. It keeps our
industry visible and in front of the
consumer as a reminder of why pork
is such a great product.”
If you would like additional
information about Sweet Briar Farms,
call 541 683-7447 or email
sweetbriarfarms@hotmail.com.
You can also visit their web site
www.sweet-briar-farms.com.
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If you are a niche pork producer and would like to have your contact
information listed on the Niche Pork Web site, call the Checkoff’s Producer
Service Center at 1-800-456-PORK. |