Final answer:
The breakdown occurred in assessing potential customers' needs, which is crucial for tailoring the sales approach and building lasting relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given scenario where Sarah sells organic produce to a tricounty area and demonstrates the same produce to rural and urban potential customers, the step in the sales process that most likely broke down is assess the potential customers' needs. It is essential to tailor the approach based on the different needs and preferences of rural versus urban customers.
Without properly assessing these needs, Sarah may not be presenting the benefits of her product effectively to each specific group, which would be a critical oversight in the sales process. Additionally, understanding the needs allows for better relationship building to develop loyal customers over time.