You Be The Judge

What makes a great farmers market? Read on to see some of the features nation markets have that make them great … then you decide for yourself.

Producer Market
A producer market allows very little re-selling of products. One of key benefits of shopping at a farmers market is developing a personal relationship with the people who actually produce or make your food. Really, it is….

all about trust.

A producer can speak directly and with authority about where and how the food item is produced. Nearly all markets make an exception for one or two items that cannot be sourced locally (like coffee). The best markets have very, very few resellers.  Producers know they have to look you in the eye and cannot hide behind a distant corporate structure. They have a personal stake in the quality and craftsmanship of their product.

Local Sourcing
Helping local small farmers and businesses strengthens the local economy. The best markets source from a 100 mile radius or less. It reduces the distance food must travel to your table. Why does that matter? Regional and national distributors must rely on tough produce that will travel long distances and store well. That means either harvesting before maturity or relying on varieties bred to handle the hardship.

Local producers can harvest at the peak of maturity, flavor and nutrition. Buying local reduces carbon footprint of your food….fuel for packaging, transportation and refrigeration.  And finally, helping support local food producers insures your city has a local food supply just outside its borders. Listen to what food columnist and author, Michael Pollan has to say on the matter.

Quality Vendors
Markets must attract good vendors to your market. It is very competitive. The best vendors will go where there are loyal shoppers, marketing support, a location that makes it comfortable for shoppers, reasonable fees and, perhaps most of all, good management. Ask your vendor candidly how they like their market.

Loyal Customers
Loyal customers buy frequently, bring their children so they can experience real food,  proudly bring out-of-town guests and don’t let a little rain prevent their weekly visit.

A Great Location
Shopping at a farmers market should be in pleasant, if not picturesque surroundings, shade from the summer heat, lots of free parking (and maybe charging stations for electric vehicles, handicap spaces and bike racks) and a location this is central to the city so customer can attend events or continue shopping at retailers.

Entertainment and Educational Programs
A farmers market is more that a place to buy fresh and artisan foods. It should be a place that is fun and entertaining to visit. It should be the kind of place you want to share with your kids. A place memorable enough your child will grow to adulthood with fond memories of shopping at the farmers market with mom and dad. A place where a love for real food and the environment in which it was grown sets the stage for healthy choices.

Wide Support of Community Organizations
A market can be a place to build community around fresh foods and artisan crafted products. Event promotions, city representatives, civic and environmental groups, gardens, schools, local businesses and more. It is woven into the fabric. It is part of the tapestry of the good life.

Great Leadership
Financially sustainable, policies that are fair and protective, good communications and a nurtured sense of community. Above all, market leadership must truly believe in the mission and treat the vendors and community with the respect they deserve.

How does your market stack up?