From Community to Customer: BEDS Nature Shop at the Agro Tech & Grain Tech Expo 2025

BEDS Nature Shop proudly showcased cooperative-based, natural, and traditional products at the Agro Tech & Grain Tech Expo 2025, held from 19–22 November 2025 at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), Dhaka. Organized by the Department of Cooperatives, Government of Bangladesh, the expo brought together top-performing cooperatives from across the country to promote sustainable, community-driven products and strengthen market connections.

Showcasing Nature, Tradition, and Community Strength

Members from the Sundarbans Resource Harvesters Cooperative Society, Sundarbans Mowal Cooperative Society, and the Traditional Product Producers Cooperative Society Limited (Jashore) participated actively. Through the BEDS Nature Shop stall, they promoted and sold a wide range of unique products, including:

• Gachigur (date palm molasses)
• Mangrove honey and mangrove pickle
• Handicrafts made from date palm leaves and flower by-products
• Mangrove tea
• Eco-friendly gift items such as glass covers and key rings

Each product reflects traditional skills, sustainable harvesting practices, and the rich natural heritage of the Sundarbans and Jashore regions.

Direct Interaction, Real Stories, Real Impact

One of the highlights of the expo was direct interaction between cooperative members and customers. Visitors learned about product origins, traditional production methods, and the community stories behind each item. A digital display at the stall showcased real-time product-making and packaging processes, building transparency and trust.

Over 10,000 visitors engaged with cooperative products during the three days, resulting in strong sales, repeat orders, and valuable customer feedback.

Recognition from National and International Guests

The cooperative stall received significant attention on Day 2, when the Brazilian Ambassador visited, purchased Gachigur, and shared encouraging feedback that greatly inspired the members. Senior officials from the Department of Cooperatives, including the Director General and Joint Registrar, also visited the stall and appreciated the quality and cooperative-based approach. Media coverage further enhanced visibility and brand recognition for BEDS Nature Shop and its partners.

Business Opportunities and Market Linkages

The expo created meaningful business connections. Discussions with supermarket owners and bulk buyers led to interest from two supermarkets for potential MoU agreements, opening doors for long-term market access. More than 20 direct customer orders were received, proving strong demand for authentic, natural products.

Learning from Customer Feedback

Customer feedback played a vital role in shaping future improvements. Key suggestions included:

• Enhancing handicraft and flower by-product packaging
• Improving molasses mud jar design with a terracotta look
• Refining honey thickness
• Upgrading accounting and inventory management
• Expanding promotion of unique items like mangrove pickle in urban markets

These insights will directly guide product development and packaging upgrades at BEDS Nature Shop.

Challenges That Strengthened Our Journey

Like any major expo, there were challenges—competitive pricing, peak-hour customer management, and limited stock of popular items like Gachigur. However, these experiences provided valuable lessons in premium customer engagement, product display, inventory planning, and direct selling without middlemen.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Participation in the Agro Tech & Grain Tech Expo 2025 was a major milestone for BEDS Nature Shop. It strengthened national visibility, expanded market access, and reinforced the power of cooperative-based, ethical, and sustainable business models.

With continued support, improved branding, and strong follow-up, BEDS Nature Shop remains committed to connecting conscious consumers with nature-friendly, community-produced goods—supporting livelihoods while protecting Bangladesh’s natural heritage.