Genuine Local

Genuine Local is a food production facility in Laconia, NH, operating from 17 Messer St. Although categorized as a food truck, the business functions as a small batch co-packing and kitchen rental service for food entrepreneurs, farmers, and local makers. It provides contract manufacturing, value-added production, and access to commercial production facilities to help clients produce safe, shelf-stable products. The service area includes support for businesses developing hot-packed goods, with specific assistance for those turning crop surpluses into market-ready items.

The facility is mission-driven, aiming to fill the gap created by a lack of access to commercial production resources. It offers custom manufacturing with low minimum order quantities, allowing start-ups to test markets without the high investment required by larger automated manufacturers. This approach enables clients to adjust labels or packaging based on early customer feedback. Local farmers can use the service to extend their season by converting surplus crops into shelf-stable products for CSAs or store shelves. State-licensed makers can rent the kitchen to increase productivity, with support for label layout, nutrition fact panels, recipe scaling, and pricing tier development. The team includes Mary Macdonald, who handles regulatory compliance and business development, and Gavin Macdonald, who manages facilities and operations. Clarissa Macdonald joined the organization in 2018. Testimonials from Winnipesaukee Woods Farm and Parson Meadows Farm highlight how the collaboration helps target farm production and expand product lines using locally sourced ingredients.

The location sits on Messer St, about a mile from the Laconia Post Office and Laconia Public Library. It is situated near the Winnipesaukee River and Perley Canal, both within a tenth of a mile. Holy Trinity Catholic School is also nearby, along with Laconia City Hall. The business holds a rating of 3.70 based on customer reviews.

Genuine Local stands out in Laconia for its focus on low minimum order quantities and tailored support for small food businesses, providing a practical pathway for local makers to scale production.