Welcome to Local Roots

Thank you for joining Local Roots!

Our marketplace was created to connect local buyers with local producers, growers, makers, artisans, and small businesses. We want to help you reach more customers while strengthening local economies and food security in our communities.

This guide will help you get the most out of your Local Roots seller account.

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Getting Started

Complete Your Seller Profile

Your profile is often the first thing buyers will see.

Be sure to:

• Upload a clear logo or profile photo
• Add a detailed business description
• Include your pickup location
• Add pickup instructions
• Connect your Stripe account following the prompts (hint, if you don’t have a website, you can use your social media account or your Local Roots seller page URL.
• Keep your contact information current

Buyers are more likely to purchase from sellers who have complete profiles.

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Creating Great Listings

Use Clear Photos

Photos are one of the most important factors in making a sale.

Tips:

• Use bright, clear images
• Show the actual product whenever possible
• Use multiple photos for different angles
• Avoid blurry or heavily edited images

Write Detailed Descriptions

Help buyers understand exactly what they’re purchasing.

Include:

• Size or quantity
• Ingredients (if applicable)
• Growing practices
• Materials used
• Special features
• Storage recommendations

Example:

“Farm fresh free-range eggs collected daily from our small family farm in Fruitvale.”

Price Fairly

Consider:

• Material costs
• Labour
• Market demand
• Comparable local products

Transparent pricing helps build trust.

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Managing Inventory

Keep Listings Current

Only list products that are available for purchase.

If inventory changes:

• Update quantities promptly
• Remove unavailable items
• Mark seasonal products appropriately

Nothing frustrates buyers more than ordering products that are no longer available.

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Managing Orders

Respond Promptly

When a new order is received:

1. Review the order
2. Accept or decline promptly
3. Communicate any important pickup information
4. Prepare the order as quickly as possible

Update Order Status

Use order statuses to keep buyers informed.

Examples:

• Accepted
• Ready for Pickup
• Completed

Buyers appreciate regular updates.

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Pickup Best Practices

Be Clear

Provide:

• Accurate pickup location
• Pickup hours
• Special instructions
• Contact information if required

Be Prepared

Have orders ready before the buyer arrives whenever possible.

A smooth pickup experience leads to repeat customers.

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Building Customer Trust

Communicate Clearly

Respond to questions and concerns respectfully.

Be Reliable

Consistent quality and dependable service help build long-term customer relationships.

Deliver What You Promise

Accurate listings and honest communication create trust and positive reviews.

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Food Safety & Regulations

Sellers are responsible for ensuring their products comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

This may include:

• Food safety requirements
• Product labeling requirements
• Business licensing requirements
• Agricultural regulations

If you’re unsure about requirements for your products, consult the appropriate regulatory authority.

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Getting More Sales

Complete Your Profile

Buyers are more likely to purchase from sellers with complete profiles.

Use Quality Photos

Good photos increase visibility and buyer confidence.

Keep Inventory Updated

Active listings perform better than outdated ones.

Offer Excellent Service

Happy buyers become repeat customers.

Tell Your Customers About Local Roots

Share your Local Roots profile on:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Community groups
• Farmers markets
• Business cards
• Email newsletters

The more people who know about Local Roots, the more opportunities there are for everyone.

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Community Expectations

All sellers are expected to:

• Be honest and respectful
• Accurately represent products
• Fulfill accepted orders
• Maintain professional communication
• Follow Local Roots policies

Accounts that repeatedly violate platform policies may be suspended or removed.

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Need Help?

We’re here to help.

For questions, support, or feedback, contact:

info@localrootsapp.ca

Thank you for being part of Local Roots and helping build stronger local communities.

Buy Local. By Locals.