“Although people know that farmers’ markets are a great place to buy fresh, local food,” said Jon Bell, president of the BCAFM, “the results of this study demonstrate the incredible growth of markets since 2006 when we supported a similar study.” Farmers’ markets in BC have continued to grow, producing 147 % more sales in 2012 than 2006.
Dr. David Connell, a professor from the University of Northern BC who led the project, added, “This project builds upon the results of a similar study we did in 2006. The results are significant for many reasons. They highlight the improving viability of local food systems, increasing demand for new farmers, and pressing need to protect the agricultural land base."
More people are shopping at markets: there’s been a 62 % increase in the number of markets and shoppers are spending more money. Over 9,800 people participated in the study at 33 farmers’ markets across British Columbia. Over half of the market visitors shop at the market at least two to three times a month. With a loyal customer base, farmers and vendors are finding the stability they need with this marketing channel. Additionally, 20 % of market shoppers are first time visitors showing that markets are reaching a new customer base.
“Farmers’ markets continue to serve as the face of agriculture in BC,” said Elizabeth Quinn, Executive Director of the BCAFM. “There has been significant growth in the number and vitality of farmers’ markets in BC and it is important to understand not only what they contribute but also how much they contribute to local neighbourhoods, cities, and towns,” she explained.
The five most important factors that farmers’ market shoppers consider when buying food include nutritional content, grown/produced in BC or locally, in season and animal welfare.
The project was carried out by the BCAFM in collaboration with Dr. David Connell, a professor in the School of Environmental Planning at the University of Northern British Columbia. Financial assistance was provided by participating farmers’ markets, Vancity Community Foundation, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada programming delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.
A full copy of the Provincial Report on the Economic and Social Benefits Assessment of BC Farmers’ Markets can be downloaded from the BCAFM website: http://www.bcfarmersmarket.org/resources/subpage/economic-and-social-benefits-study
The BCAFM is a not-for-profit association that represents 115 farmers’ markets across the province and works to support, develop and promote farmers’ markets in all regions of BC. For more information on the BCAFM or to find a farmers’ market near you, visit: