Roadside stands are an Amish country trademark. Stand by the road, no seller. Cash box.
What They Sell
Seasonal vegetables, berries, eggs, baked goods (bread, pies, cookies), honey, jams, quilts, wood crafts. Prices on a sign. Take change from the box.
Honor System
No seller present. Take goods — leave money. Does it work? In Amish country — yes. Losses 5-10%. Cheaper than paying a clerk. Social pressure: everyone knows who steals.
Income
Small stand: $200-500/week summer. Large diverse: $500-1,500/week. Good tourist road location: $2,000+/week. Minimal expenses — everything is homegrown.
Best Sellers
Whoopie pies (chocolate cakes with cream) — $2-3 each, sell first. Strawberries — $5-7/quart in season. Honey — $10-15/jar. Quilts — $200-800 (serious money).