Country markets

Concerns over global carbon emissions mean ‘food miles’ are starting to come under closer scrutiny from consumers, with more and more people choosing fresh, local produce over imported supermarket goods.	Regional markets represent an ideal opportunity for people to buy from local producers, and while prices may sometimes be slightly higher than at the supermarket, they do at least give the assurance that your money will stay within your community.

Markets, in fact, come with a host of economic benefits, such as the ‘knock-on’ spending in local shops on market days which can help entire regions to prosper financially.

Above-all though, local markets bring producers and consumers together and help to generate a healthy, lively spirit amongst communities. It is this community spirit that has helped many local businesses survive in spite of global-brand competitors – and is integral to the concept behind ‘Country Markets’.

The organisation, formerly known as the ‘Women’s Institute Country Markets’, has one of the largest market networks in Britain, with more than 450 outlets bringing home-grown specialties to towns and villages across the country.

Far removed from the supermarket dash, the Country Markets shopping experience is unique and refreshing. Producers co-operate to sell their goods, with none allowed a stall or table of their own.

All produce is genuinely home-produced, and ranges from seasonal fruit and vegetables to cakes, craft and cut flowers. While promoting the availability of home-grown goods to consumers, Country Markets also serve as encouragement to a new wave of producers, bakers and farmers.

Anybody over the age of 16 can join their local market as a producer. It costs just 5 pence to join and no minimum quantities are ever required – you can make as much or as little as you wish to sell.

A small commission, normally around 10%, is taken from the sale of goods to cover the market’s expenses and running costs, but the remainder is paid back to the producer at the end of the month.

If you are interested in ‘Country Markets’, either as a consumer or producer, please visit the organisation’s official web site at www.country-markets.co.uk

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