Farmers’ markets make locally grown produce available for consumers. Buying local has benefits for farmers, consumers, and communities. Planning a farmers market in your community can be a great way to support local farmers and promote healthy eating habits, but there are steps one must follow to put on a successful farmers market.
Here are seven things to consider when planning a farmers market:
1. Location
Choose a location that is easily accessible to the community and has adequate parking. Selecting a spot is tricky, but be sure to find a location with the following characteristics:
- Close to customers
- Available parking
- Cover from weather
- Seating for socializing or other activities
2. Permits and Licenses
Check with your local government to determine what permits and licenses are required for a farmers market. This may include permits for food vendors, liability insurance, and special event permits.
3. Vendors
Reach out to local farmers, food artisans, and other vendors interested in participating in the market. Consider diversity in the types of products being sold and prioritize vendors who prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Many county offices keep a list of small farmers, and your local chamber of commerce can also serve as a valuable source for finding potential vendors. Farmers and other potential vendors must also be convinced that spending a few hours a week at the market is worth their time.
4. Marketing and Promotion
Develop a marketing plan to promote the farmers market to the community, especially when it first opens. This may include advertising in local newspapers and websites, social media outreach, and signage at the market location. Promoting your farmers market on public radio and local newspaper ads is less expensive than commercial radio or TV ads. Of course, free publicity is the best of all, so investigate community information sources such as newsletters and public event boards.
5. Layout and Logistics
Divide the market into different zones to organize vendors based on their products or categories. Zones may include fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, crafts, etc. This helps customers locate what they are looking for and creates a sense of order. Also, provide ample space for vendors to set up their booths and for visitors to move around. Plan for parking, restroom facilities, trash and recycling bins, and other logistics.
6. Activities and Events
Consider adding activities or events to the market to enhance the overall experience and attract more visitors, such as:
- Cooking Demonstrations
- Live Music
- Arts & Crafts
- Petting Zoo
- Food Contests or Competitions
- Health and Wellness Events
7. Safety Protocols
Developing safety protocols ensures the well-being of vendors and customers at the farmers market. Safety measures include sanitation and hygiene, food safety, crowd management, signage and communication, waste management, and emergency preparedness.
Let Asset Management Do the Work
Asset management software can help plan a farmers market by providing organization, tracking, and analysis of the various assets involved in the production. Software such as AssetWorks Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) can manage vendor information so agencies can keep track of vendor contacts, permits, and payment records to keep the market organized. Along with managing vendors, EAM can track inventory. The asset management software will monitor and manage inventory and generate restocking alerts to reduce the risks of stockouts.
Data offered by EAM can capture data and generate reports so agencies have insights into vendor performance, customer satisfaction, and overall market success. This data will help identify areas needing improvement and strategies for future growth.
Planning farmers’ markets requires careful attention to detail and a focus on creating a positive experience for vendors and visitors alike. EAM can help streamline operations and provide a centralized platform to manage vendors, inventory, and finances, ultimately contributing to a well-organized farmers market.
