Introducing the Meat Squad: Your Partner in Local Meat Marketing Success

Agriculture is constantly evolving, and the way farmers and butcher shops connect with customers has had to evolve right along with it. We created The Meat Squad because we saw firsthand that success in today’s meat industry requires more than producing an incredible product, it requires strategic marketing, strong digital presence, and the ability to reach customers where they are. That’s where we come in.

The Meat Squad was built specifically to help farmers, ranchers, and butcher shops across the United States strengthen their marketing, grow their businesses, and connect more effectively with consumers who are eager to support local meat.

How Chop Local Began

Our story really starts back in 2020.

When the pandemic disrupted the meat supply chain, grocery store shelves emptied and consumers began searching for new ways to buy meat directly from producers. Farmers and livestock producers suddenly had an unprecedented opportunity to reach customers—but many didn’t yet have the tools or platforms to do it easily.

That moment inspired the creation of Chop Local.

We brought together a team that believed local meat producers deserved a better way to connect with consumers online. Chop Local became a marketplace and resource hub designed to help farmers reach more customers and tell the story behind their products.

But as we worked with producers across the country, we noticed something else.

The Need for Marketing Education in Direct to Consumer Meat Businesses

Many farmers and butcher shops wanted to improve their marketing, but they weren’t always sure where to start.

That’s why we launched Chop Local University—an educational platform where we share marketing insights through webinars, blog posts, and practical resources designed specifically for the local meat industry. Our goal was simple: give producers the knowledge and tools they need to promote their products effectively.

And the response was incredible.

When Producers Asked for More

As we worked with hundreds of farmers and butcher shops nationwide, we kept hearing the same question again and again:

“Can you just do it for us?”

Most producers understood the importance of social media, email marketing, and strong branding. But between raising livestock, running processing facilities, and managing daily operations, many simply didn’t have the time—or the desire—to handle the marketing side themselves.

So we built something new.

Introducing The Meat Squad

The Meat Squad was created to give meat businesses a dedicated marketing team that truly understands agriculture.

Founded by Katie Olthoff and Sierra Jepsen, The Meat Squad is a team of marketing professionals who specialize in the meat industry. We work directly with farmers, ranchers, and butcher shops to develop and implement marketing strategies that actually move the needle.

Our services include:

• Social media management

• Email marketing campaigns

• Graphic design

• Website development

• Strategic marketing planning

In other words, we don’t just advise—we help execute.

Marketing Support That Fits Your Stage of Growth

Every meat business is different, which is why we offer two primary service options.

Our Startup Plan is designed for businesses that are just getting started with digital marketing. We help establish the foundation—everything from logo design to setting up social media accounts and building an online presence.

Our Scale Up Package is built for businesses ready to grow. This plan focuses on ongoing marketing strategy, content creation, and consistent brand development to help expand reach and increase sales.

Because we’ve worked closely with so many producers and butcher shops, we bring real-world experience and proven strategies to every partnership.

A Partner for the Local Meat Industry

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to the people producing America’s local meat.

We know the challenges that come with marketing a product while also managing a farm or processing business. Our goal is to take the marketing workload off your plate so you can focus on what you do best.

If you’re ready to strengthen your marketing, expand your reach, and connect with more customers who value locally raised meat, we’d love to work with you.

Learn more about The Meat Squad and explore our services at Chop Local University.

Together, we can continue building a stronger, more connected local meat economy—one farm and butcher shop at a time.