Retail
Two of the main barriers which restrict people’s ability to eat more healthily are availability and affordability of healthier products. For example, in many areas there are few shops that sell fresh fruit and vegetables, and in those that do it is often expensive and of poor quality.
Many community food initiatives such as food co-ops, delivery services or mobile shops are set up to try to increase access to affordable fruit and vegetables. Some initiatives may also focus on working with existing retailers. Other food retailing initiatives, such as farmers’ markets or box schemes, also aim to increase the availability of local and/or organic produce.
Farmers’ markets can help support local producers and small businesses, reduce food miles, invigorate town centres and benefit the rural economy - find out more by reading the Farmers' Market toolkit.
The following case studies and publications have details about how various different food retailing initiatives have been set up.
Other Resources:
- Veg Bag Scheme - South East Five a Day Programme
- Mobile Fruit and Vegetable Vans - NW Food & Health Task Force
- Volunteer Fruit & Veg Stall - South East Five a Day Programme
- Urban Farmers Market Toolkit - Riverside Community Market Association