Greg Saltzman couldn’t help but get a little emotional Friday, May 2 as he thanked those who helped him realize a dream. Saltzman and his wife, Karen were moments from breaking ground on his newest business venture — Whitetail Farms Farm Fresh Market — as he addressed a large audience eager to join in the moment.
“I’ve been thinking about this for the last 15 to 20 years,” said Saltzman, who owns Whitetail Farms, LLC in Olivet. “I tried to purchase this property 10 years ago and it didn’t work out, but I was approached this past July and have been able to move forward.”
Construction on the 6,400-square foot market will begin within the next week. The new location, on Butterfield Highway across from Olivet College’s Cutler Events Center, will be home to both of Saltzman’s businesses. Saltzman has targeted deer season for the opening of the deer-processing portion of the business. Saltzman said the market, which will sell farm fresh beef, chicken and pork will open later in the fall.
“This is really for the community,” he said. “The community lost its grocery store, so this is a way to bring back fresh meat and produce to the community, so they can trust where they’re getting their products from.”
The Farm Fresh Market will sell produce, Michigan-made products, including Michigan-made beer and wine, as well as steaks, burger, pork, chicken, deli meats, party trays, salads and marinated items. He said he would eventually like to offer catering services.
His new business venture would not have been possible, he said, without the help of several individuals and organizations. He mentioned Kellie Hanford of the Small Business Technology Development Center at Lansing Community College as in invaluable resource in helping bring his idea to life.
“Without her, this would not have happened,” Saltzman said. “I strongly suggest any new business person go through her program. She was a tremendous help.”
Saltzman also thanked Hastings City Bank for the financing, Farm Bureau Insurance, DH Roberts Construction, Crouch Electric, D&J Excavating and the City of Olivet.
