Farmers’ markets have become big business, thanks in part to the buy local and eco-friendly movements. A February report by Farmers’ Market Canada (FMC) reveals that across North America, farmers’ markets play a key role in selling agricultural products and have a purchasing power of 28 million shopper-visits, with an average of $32 for every visit. That’s a lot of apples when you consider the small price tags of the products sold in a farmers’ market.
Are you thinking of expanding your garden centre to offer more
produce and farmers' market-style products?
Farmers' Markets Canada (FMC) unveiled the results of the National
Farmers' Market Impact Study 2009 Report at their first annual
conference and annual general meeting on Feb. 16-17 in St. Catharines,
Ontario.
The 2008 study examined 508 markets and confirmed the economic force
that farmers' markets have become in the Canadian economy and their
hosting communities. The markets play a key role in selling
agricultural products with estimated sales of $1.03 billion, and an
economic impact range of $1.55 to $3.09 billion annually. That is the
purchasing power of approximately 28 million shopper-visits that spent
an average of $32 per visit.
The popularity of farmers' markets as a 'community shopping experience'
has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years as consumers seek out an
array of food and non-food items, and the opportunity to interact with
local farmers. The study confirmed that consumer demand and interest is
closely aligned with support for local farmers and fresh, healthy, food
choices.
"The success of farmers' markets can be attributed to a number of
factors," explains Robert Chorney, Chair of FMC. "Consumers have
expressed a clear desire to return to healthier, fresher, locally
produced products. They have a strong belief in the integrity of
shopping within their community. And, over 60 per cent of shoppers
indicated that buying their food directly from a local farmer is
extremely important to them."
Are you thinking of expanding your garden centre to offer more
produce and farmers' market-style products? Comment below on our blog to have your say.
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