Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacie Franchell.
Hi Stacie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My family in the Savannah area has been in the produce business for over 70 years. Polk’s Produce was founded by my grandfather and is still going strong today with my mom, dad, and brother.
My husband has owned Padriac’s in the Vinings area since 1997, and I worked alongside him there until 2020. When the pandemic hit, I finally decided to start a business I had been dreaming about for years—Crop Drop.
Crop Drop delivers fresh produce, local meats, and more straight to your door throughout Cobb County. I source as much as possible from farmers across the Southeast. Each week’s box is different and typically includes six vegetables and two fruits, carefully packed and delivered. We also offer meats from Hunter Cattle in Brooklet, Georgia, along with a variety of locally made jarred goods. Each week I prepare rotating add-ons like soups, pasta salads, dips, and other sides.
In the spring and fall, you’ll often find me at local festivals, where I sell produce along with beautiful plants and flowers. I truly love these events—meeting customers face-to-face and connecting with the people I deliver to is always a highlight.
I am incredibly grateful for everyone who has supported my small business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As with most any new business there is a lot to learn. In the beginning I didn’t know anyone at the markets which can make it hard to find the best produce. I gradually met people and now know when to expect certain farmers depending on the time of year. My brother, Barry, who has a produce delivery service, Polk’s on the Go in Pooler, GA has helped me so much with little problems that come up.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Crop Drop?
Crop Drop is a produce delivery service serving homes and offices throughout the Cobb County area. Each delivery includes a box with typically six vegetables and two fruits. There’s no subscription—you simply order whenever it works for you.
Every Friday morning, I send an email letting customers know the order form is open. For those who like to see what’s coming before ordering, I post the contents of that week’s box on Instagram and Facebook on Monday mornings. Deliveries are made on Wednesdays, and recipients receive a text message once their box has been delivered.
I source as much produce as possible from local farmers across the Southeast and guarantee every item. If a customer ever receives something that isn’t to their liking, I’m happy to replace it or issue a refund.
Optional add-ons include a variety of meats from Hunter Cattle (Brooklet, GA) and Banner Butters (Atlanta, GA). Each week also features a rotating prepared item such as soup, pasta salad, or dip. Other popular add-ons include boiled peanuts, shelled peas and beans, and locally made pickles and jams.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Word of mouth and social media has probably been the best for me. I so appreciate anyone sharing on their social media or neighborhood pages.
Pricing:
- $30 for the weekly box (you must order the box to get the sides)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cropdroptoyou.com
- Instagram: cropdroplady
- Facebook: Crop Drop
