Grocery stores came into play in the 1800’s in the US as shipping and transportation of goods became easier during the industrial revolution. By the 1900’s the local town markets were few a far between, and it wasn’t until the 1970’s that farmers markets started to make a come back. In 1999 the first “National Farmers Market Week” was recognized.
Today farmers markets are gaining popularity as people are recognizing the importance of locally grown foods and made goods. Local markets allow you to know how food was grown, harvested and packaged. Lets you meet the makers and artist selling the goods. And are actually environmentally friendly due to the short transportation distances for the foods and goods.
It’s important as a market vendor to remember quality>quantity. Treat all your customers the same and add in some value added items to whatever you’re selling. Say you’re selling strawberries, add a recipe tag for delicious strawberry desserts. You’re an artist? Cool, include stickers of your art. Sell items that aren’t “main stream”, have a visible explanation of how to use it and why it’s better, and include a little info card with purchase. Use cute reusable containers whenever possible, not only will it make your products more appealing but it will be an added bonus to their purchase. There are many other ways to add value to the items you’re selling, get creative with it!
As for market goers, talk to the farmers, makers and artists! They are truly there because they love providing YOU with great products. And everyone loves to share their passions with others. Ask a friend to join you that normally doesn’t come to the market. Share on social media and tag the vendors. (vendors: include your social handles and hashtags on your containers, receipts, everything! If your business isn’t on social at least come up with a hashtag that people can use to share your items to spread the word for you!)
Local markets benefit everyone not just the vendors or the customers. So work together to improve your local markets, or get one started if you don’t have one!