From Side Dish to Main Course: How the Salad Boom Could Boost Sales for the STOP Mobile Farmers Market
Once a humble sidekick to burgers and fries, salads are taking center stage in America’s drive-thrus—and for The STOP Mobile Farmers Market in Augusta, GA, this national shift could spell a season of major growth.
According to a recent FoodDrinkLife blog post by Mandy Applegate, fast food salads are experiencing a 4% rise in consumer consumption, with over half of those salads now being served as the main dish. The shift reflects what more and more farmers market managers are beginning to realize: people want flavor, speed and wellness—and they’re willing to pay for it.
How STOP Mobile Fits Right In
For us at Growing Augusta, this isn’t just a trend to watch. It’s a trend to grow with.
The STOP Mobile Farmers Market operates at the intersection of convenience and health-conscious eating. With a food truck (The Stop Food Truck) meets farmers market (South Augusta Farmers Market) model, we’re uniquely positioned to tap into the “grab-and-go greens” movement. Our produce selection - fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, grilled proteins, seasonal fruits, herbs, and more - makes it easy for customers to build their own gourmet-level salad bowls on the fly.
We will continue to offer fresh salad kits with ingredients sourced directly from our partner farmers. Customers can pre-order classic combos like Caesar or Cobb, or build a bowl using fresh-picked ingredients and locally made dressings. It’s nutritious, low-prep, and, thanks to our mobile setup, available right in the heart of food deserts and underserved neighborhoods.
Growth Through Young Farmers
This momentum comes at a perfect time. We’re proud to welcome a new cohort of young, local farmers who are growing everything from heirloom tomatoes to microgreens. Their energy, creativity, and crop diversity allow us to meet growing demand for high-quality, fresh ingredients while supporting the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs.
Many of these new farmers are experimenting with salad-forward crops- like arugula, kale, Swiss chard, and edible flowers - creating an exciting supply chain that is both hyper-local and aligned with national food trends.
What’s Next?
As fast food chains like Chick-fil-A, Panera, and Wendy’s revamp their salad menus, they’re helping redefine what fast, fresh eating can look like. And while they may offer national convenience, local markets like STOP Mobile offer something they can’t: a personal connection to the grower, the community, and the soil.
With customers increasingly choosing “green over grease,” the future is looking bright - and leafy. Whether you're a lunchtime regular or a home chef craving fresh inspiration, keep an eye on our market schedule this season. You just might discover your new favorite salad… grown and served right in your neighborhood.
Walker Thomas, Intern