In Support of our Local Farmer's Markets!

Why have a farmer's market?   Because farmers' markets benefit:
Producers

• They cut out the middleman allowing increased financial returns through direct selling, price control, and a regular cash flow.
• They provide the producer with direct customer feedback on produce and prices.  
• Transport and packaging requirements are less thus reducing the producers' costs.
• They provide a secure and regular market outlet. This is especially valuable for; new producers, producers in organic conversion, and small scale producers who are unable to produce the quantity required by supermarkets
• With the increase in market numbers it is possible for individual producers to attend a substantial number of different markets. A number of farmers have indicated that this form of marketing has prevented their businesses from bankruptcy.

 Consumers

•  They provide direct contact and feedback between customers and producers, so you can be sure how your vegetables are grown and meat produced.
• They help to improve diet and nutrition by providing access to fresh food.
• They play an important role in educating the consumer as to the production and origin of their food.  
• They can be a source of information and inspiration on how to cook and prepare fresh ingredients.

 The Environment

•  They help reduce food miles, thus vehicle pollution, noise, and fossil fuel use.
• They help to reduce packaging.
• They encourage more environmental production practices, such as organic or pesticide free.
• They encourage farm diversification and hence bio-diversity.

The Community & Local Economy

• They help bring life into towns and cities aiding regeneration.  
• They encourage social interaction particularly between rural and urban communities.  
• They stimulate local economic development by increasing employment, encouraging consumers to support local business, and thus keeping the money within the local community.  

........And they are fun!