Skarstad Gartneri - a sales window for local producers and small-scale producers

In the Kongsvinger region, just outside Kongsvinger, you will find the Skarstad family farm. The place is known for its unripe fresh vegetables, short-distance local temptations and a pleasant farm café where tasty dishes are served. Read the interview with Linda Skarstad and get an insight into everyday work on the farm.

Name: Linda Skarstad
Workplace: Skarstad Horticulture
Job title: Kitchen and Farm Market responsible

Start video

Questions for you who keep the wheels going

What kind of skills / education is required in your job?

Interest in food and production, technical competence in relation to various computer systems, warehousing / logistics, large work capacity, likes hectic days with lots of customers.

How has your workday been in recent weeks compared to normal conditions. Give a brief explanation of what a "normal" day looks like in these corona times?

The last few weeks have been very hectic. We have had a very good visit to the farm and it requires extra effort from everyone in relation to the corona measures we have done. A normal working day starts in the kitchen where we prep and prepare coffee. Then there is a trip to the farm market and make sure everything is as it should be there. That goods are put out, priced and placed in the boxes. We open the doors at 12.00 and then it goes in one until we close at. 19.00

Why is your job important and how do you / your company contribute to keeping society going?

We want to be a sales window for other local producers and small-scale producers. Our customers have been very good at supporting Norwegian manufacturers now and we have sold well of both our own goods and the other goods. This is very positive for everyone who lives on small margins and small productions and helps them to keep production going. Many people enjoy lunch, coffee and cakes on the outdoor terrace where there is a good distance between the tables and you have the space you need in these.

Do you have any professional tips or advice that people should follow in these times?

Remember that it is still important to keep your distance and wash your hands!

What would you say to others who are considering your career?

Working with food and people is definitely recommended.

What is the best thing about working / living in the Kongsvinger region?

There is a lot of exciting happening in the region and Kognsvinger. The entire boardwalk and city park area has become incredibly good and nice. If you have children, there is a lot to do and it is difficult to choose what to choose. There are many nice hiking opportunities in the area and you have everything you need at the same time as it is only a short train ride into Oslo if you want a little city life occasionally.

Watch the film where Linda tells about her everyday work in a state of emergency Insta og Facebook.

Start video

Read more similar cases in the series "We keep the wheels turning" where the goal is to highlight exciting and relevant jobs in the Kongsvinger region that have a particularly important task in a demanding time.