OKLAHOMA (RFD-TV) — Choctaw Ranches is preparing to expand its beef business, with plans to make locally raised products more accessible through direct-to-consumer sales and additional retail partnerships.
Marshall Wright, senior director of commerce marketing for non-gaming at the Choctaw Nation, discussed the operation’s recent investments, its growing retail presence and plans to expand the Choctaw Ranches Beef brand.
Building a Foundation for Growth
In his interview with RFD-TV, Wright said the Choctaw Nation has spent the last several years evaluating its agricultural operations and better understanding its place in the beef market.
That work has included market research, customer demographics, and pricing models, particularly as the beef industry faces fluctuating prices and other challenges.
Wright said the effort has helped the operation identify opportunities to tell the story of Choctaw agriculture through Choctaw Ranches and build trust with tribal members, the local community and customers.
Expanding Direct-to-Consumer Beef Sales
One of the operation’s priorities for the coming year is improving the customer experience for its freezer beef program, which Wright described as foundational to Choctaw Ranches Beef.
The goal is to make ordering local beef easier for tribal members and the surrounding community while creating a platform for expanded online sales.
Wright said the operation hopes to offer more direct-to-consumer options for customers who may not want to purchase a whole, half, or quarter beef. Plans include allowing customers to order boxes of individual cuts and other products online.
He said the initiative is targeted for launch early next year.
Growing Retail and Restaurant Partnerships
Choctaw Ranches is also working to expand the availability of its beef through retail and restaurant partnerships.
The operation recently began working with Homegrown Meats in Atoka, Oklahoma, as one of its exclusive beef providers. Wright said the partnership is part of the company’s “Choctaw Ranches Beef Sold Here” program.
Choctaw Ranches is also a part owner of Three Rivers Meat Company in Smithville, Oklahoma, which provides another retail outlet.
Wright said the operation is working with Choctaw Travel Plaza locations to feature more of its beef on restaurant menus, including limited-time burger offerings planned for next year.
Beyond Oklahoma, the operation has partnered with Texas Live in Arlington, Texas. Wright said three items on its fall menu feature Choctaw Ranches Beef.
Emphasizing Quality and Competitive Pricing
Wright said Choctaw Ranches Beef is focused on providing high-quality products while maintaining competitive pricing.
He said the cattle and beef cuts meet upper-two-thirds Choice premium standards.
Wright also pointed to the operation’s vertically controlled supply chain as a differentiator, allowing the business to offer locally raised beef at a more competitive price point than consumers might typically find at grocery or retail outlets.
LEARN MORE: www.ChoctawRanches.com
