Most consumers know very little information about their meat aside from the cost per pound. More details are available at farmer’s markets; however, beef is typically available only seasonally. The smaller operations that offer goods at farmers markets often struggle to make ends meet, as they are left to absorb the cost of unsold meat products. Ethan Lowry, the founder of Urbanspoon thinks crowdfunding a cow could be the answer to these and other problems-here’s why.
Crowd Cow Launches
In 2016, Lowry along with Joe Heitzeberg founded Crowd Cow, an online platform that allows consumers to essentially crowd fund all or part of a cow. Individuals can choose which cuts of meat they would like to invest in, with prices varying according to cut. Their selections will then be shipped directly to their door once the cow “tips” or is fully purchased. If the cow fails to tip, the online sale expires, and no customer cards are charged.
Thus far, Crowd Cow claims that every head of cattle has been fully accounted for. This is good news for ranchers, who no longer have to worry that they will be stuck with unpopular cuts of beef that have to be written off as a loss. It also means that prices can remain as low as possible for consumers.
The success of Crowd Cow is something its founders are very proud of. Both Lowry and Heitzeberg had hoped to create a business model that would appeal to their conscience and benefit both the supplier and the consumer. It appears that with Crowd Cow, they have achieved their aspirations.
Provides a More Personalized Experience
Crowd Cow subscribers get more than just fresh meat delivered to their door, as they also learn the story behind the beef and the people that produce it. On their website, Crowd Cow features different family farms, displaying pictures of their facilities as well as their cattle. There is even some personal information about the farmers themselves, as well as a synopsis of how the cattle is raised.
The idea is to give people a sense of control over what they are buying rather than leaving them wondering about how cattle are raised or whether certain chemicals are added during the butchering process. Heitzeberg explains that other products like microbrews and wines tell their own story, and he feels that beef producers should as well.
Plans for Expansion
Based in Seattle, Crowd Cow works with farmers in Oregon, Washington, and California. However, they are currently negotiating with ranchers in Colorado to bring them on board as well. There are plans underway for a nationwide launch, which will involve the opening of an eastern fulfillment center to help keep up with the demand.
Crowdfunding a cow may seem like an unusual concept, but the idea is actually catching on rather quickly. The fact that it is a win-win situation for farmers and consumers alike means that more people are likely to consider it in the future. Before long, purchasing beef online could be every bit as common as going to the grocery store.