Farmers' Markets
Since Food Vision wrote its farmers markets toolkit in 2002 markets have sprung up across the country.
Food Vision will not therefore be updating this toolkit, but instead devoting our time to developing further toolkits on new and upcoming issues.
However below are a number of useful links if you are looking for information about farmers markets and a list of the case studies on this site which have a farmers market at thier centre.
Useful Links
Find your local farmers market
A Directgov portal to find your nearest market, based on postcode
National Farmers' Retail & Markets Association (FARMA)
FARMA is the result of the merger between the Farm Retail Association and the National Association of Farmers' Markets in 2003. FARMA works throughout the UK representing direct sales to customers through farm shops, Pick-Your-Own, farmers' markets, home delivery, on-farm catering, and farm entertainment.
Scottish & Welsh Associations of Farmers Markets
SAFM Website lists events across Scotland and lists member producers, a similar site exists for Wales.
London Farmers’ Markets
London Farmers' Markets is a small company that exists to provide Londoners with fresh local food, and to provide farmers with a good return for their work. They manage every aspect of the markets from their conception to the daily running. They provide advice to farmers about what to grow, how to grow it, and how to market local produce.
Buy Fresh, Buy Local
This website promotes local farmers, producers and suppliers, food events and farmers’ markets in the South East of England. The site provides useful information to improve access, sustainability and availability for the surrounding community and also reduces food miles.
Useful Publications
Sustainable Farmers Markets – Developing Good Practice. Produced by the Local Government Association and can be ordered directly from the LGA web site:
The FSA have published a guide to help market traders and organisers meet food safety requirements. This guide also includes advice on labelling.
Defra's Food Policy Unit have produced a number of guides to support small businesses which are selling local food at farmers markets and other avenues.