Farmers Market

A Farmers' Market sells locally produced goods to local people.  The concept is obviously not a new one as farmers' have sold and bartered goods as far back in history as agriculture itself.

It is generally accepted by most Farmers' Markets that stall holders must have grown, bred, caught, pickled, brewed or baked the goods themselves.  Their main emphasis is to help local procedures and processors to sell their goods direct to the public, as near as possible to their source of origin, creating benefits to both them and the local wider community.

Farmers' Markets also place an emphasis on added value, quality and freshness and they often also offer entertainment and events.  They aim for an atmosphere which is vibrant, upbeat and fun, helping to revitalise town centres and to make Market Shopping a sociable and enjoyable experience for all.

The selection of produce available at a Farmers' Market will clearly vary with location and season.  However customers are likely to be able to find a delicious seasonal selection of fruit and vegetables, fresh and processed meats, eggs, bread and cakes, preserves, fruit juices and dairy produce.

HOW DID THEY START

As you know Markets have been around for centuries but true Farmers' Markets that only allow local producers to sell their own produce, have only recently been reborn. The first Farmers' Markets in the UK started in the autumn of 1997, with successful pilot Markets up and spreading right across Britain.

Last Modified: Monday 24 January 2011