Farmers’ markets have positively boomed in the Bay Area for the past 15 years. Positive media attention surrounding local, organics foods has led to a demand for more markets by cities and communities. What many do not realize, however, is that the increase in markets could be hurting the small farmers who frequent them.
Some farmers who used to be able to survive by going to one or two large regional markets each week are now having to set up shop at between six and 12 smaller markets. This means higher costs and more work to reach the same amount of people.
Experts say the Bay Area has not yet reached market saturation, and some farmers and market associations are taking steps to ensure it won’t in the future.
Yes I agree with the assessment that we are reaching a saturation point. Me and my fellow marketers at the Napa Farmers Market have noticed a steady decline of attendees over the last three years and we will be adding a new market to attend this year to make up the difference. Still so happy to be what we are doing!
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