Western Australian agritourism operators with on-farm retail, cellar doors, or farm-to-table dining have a significant, state-backed marketing opportunity this October. The Cook Government has launched its annual ‘Buy West Eat Best’ month, a state-wide campaign designed to drive consumer purchasing of local produce, creating a wave of interest that farm-based businesses can directly leverage to boost visibility and sales.
Understanding the Campaign’s Impact on Consumer Behaviour
Now in its 17th year, the Buy West Eat Best (BWEB) program is a well-established and trusted brand for consumers. According to a government statement, new independent research shows that program recognition has reached its highest level, with 81 per cent of WA consumers aware of the BWEB logo. Crucially for operators, the research also revealed that three out of four shoppers actively look for the logo when making purchasing decisions.
This high level of consumer awareness and trust means that aligning your business with the campaign can provide a substantial competitive advantage. The program functions as a clear identifier for food and beverages grown, farmed, fished, and prepared in Western Australia, tapping directly into the consumer demand for provenance and supporting local producers.
Actionable Strategies for WAAA Members
During October, the campaign will involve a series of local food and beverage events, in-store retail promotions, and marketing initiatives. For agritourism operators, this presents a strategic opportunity to align their own marketing efforts. Businesses should consider promoting their use of seasonal, local ingredients, highlighting their BWEB membership if applicable, and creating special events or offers that tie into the month-long celebration of WA produce.
The government’s messaging encourages the public to consciously seek out local products. Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis stated the importance of this consumer choice.
“The Buy West Eat Best program provides an important way for consumers to support WA farmers, food producers, processors, retailers and foodservice businesses,” said the Minister.
She further emphasised the direct economic benefit of these decisions.
“Every time you buy local you are supporting local growers and producers and directly contributing to the Western Australian economy,” Ms Jarvis said.
For operators, this campaign provides a valuable narrative to frame their offerings, reinforcing the authenticity and local credentials that are central to the agritourism value proposition. Leveraging the BWEB brand throughout October can help attract customers who are already primed by the state-wide campaign to seek out and support local WA businesses.
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