What is a
Farmers' Market?

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 held in Bath. Then in 1998, Bristol, Holmfirth, Lewes and Lostwithiel also held successful Farmers' Markets. By the start of 2000, there were over 200 Farmers' Markets up and running spread right across Britain.

A Farmers' Market is one in which farmers, growers or producers from a defined local area are present in person to sell their own produce, direct to the public. All products sold should have been grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked, smoked or processed by the stallholder. For more information about Farmers' Markets, visit the website of the National Association of Farmers' Markets on www.farmersmarkets.net.

You'll also find a gateway to help you find out more in our Directory of some of the best web-based sources of news and information about farmer's markets, food and farming.

Why are Farmers Markets such a success?

• They are good for farmers and growers - By-passing the 'middle man', means that the farmers and producers can sell at prices that are attractive to the customer but also provide them with a decent income. This helps small, family farms, nurseries and smallholdings to remain viable.

• They are good for consumers - Many people are now buying regularly, direct from the producer at farmers markets, farm shops and via green boxes etc. Farmers' markets are an ideal way for the consumer to get easy, regular access to fresh, locally grown and reared produce. Customers also get to benefit by talking direct to the producer about their products, and you often get the chance to taste before you buy!

• They are good for the local economy - By supporting local producers you are helping to retain jobs and develop local services. Farmers markets also bring additional trade into the town, by increasing the numbers of customers. Raising awareness of local foods, increases the use of farm shops, green boxes and mail order direct from producers, and helps to promote the demand for local foods in hotels and restaurants.

And last but not least, they are good for sustainability - Farmers markets are one of the key ways in which a community can move towards being sustainable, by providing better access to local food. Buying your food locally helps to cut down on unnecessary transportation, helps people to better understand the relationship between their food and their environment and improves the local economy.