Case Studies
These case studies were carried out to help individuals considering diversification and at the same time provide real situation case study material for others considering diversification, particularly through business start courses such as Diversification Challenge.
The outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease and subsequent restrictions put in place during 2001 resulted in some delay in the completion of the studies and some of the planned visits could not take place within the time limit of the programme.
The diversification topics covered by the case studies are: -
- Farmhouse Cheese Manufacture
- On-farm organic butchery
- Environmentally and Disabled Friendly Guesthouse
- Equine Leisure combined with adding value to a product
- Adding value to Organic Cereals
- Countryside Walk
- Rural restaurant
- Development of chicken manure as a saleable product
- Adding Value to Apples
General lessons learned
Whilst each promoter learned different lessons from their particular project, some of the general points which should be considered by anyone contemplating a diversification project include:
- Plan the project carefully
- Undertake thorough market research
- Seek expert help if necessary
- Ensure you have the support of your family
- Take advantage of all the help being offered
- Be realistic
- Visit as many similar projects as possible, as no two businesses are the same, and the experience gained can be very worthwhile
- Be aware of legislation, which may apply to your project.