What Others Are Saying: 'Central Valley Business Times': California's Farmers' Markets Are Booming on 'Buy Local' Trend

From: Central Valley Business Times

SACRAMENTO
May 27, 2008

Farmers markets in California are increasing in popularity. Coordinators say there has been a big jump in consumer numbers in the last 18 months, as more people decide to buy food locally.

“We’re seeing an influx of new consumers coming to our markets. Even in May, we’re doing mid-August numbers in terms of customers,” says Dan Best, coordinator of the certified farmers markets of Sacramento. “I think it’s largely because of the ‘buy local’ concept. It used to be organic. Now, local trumps organic.”

In addition, more people would like to know who grows the food they eat, and they want it as fresh as it can be, Mr. Best says.

Farmers like the markets as it provides them the cash flow to keep their businesses operating.

“It’s kind of a rough way to try to sell your crop but yet it’s cash money and it’s right now, there’s no waiting for it. So a lot of growers have found it’s a good way to make their farm viable,” says Mr. Best.

The problem now is finding new locations with space for new markets.

For more information about California's Certified Farmers' Markets click here.