Economic and Social Benefits Study

Farmers’ markets in BC have continued to grow in number, producing  147% more sales in 2012 than 2006, delivering $170+ million total economic benefits. More people are shopping at farmers’ markets, and shoppers are spending more money at farmers’ markets.

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.

During the outdoor market season of 2012 we completed 33 assessments across the province. This final report presents the findings from the assessments completed at 33 markets across British Columbia between June and September, 2012. It includes results of this province-wide assessment of BC’s farmers’ markets and incorporates some results from a national study of farmers’ markets completed in 2008.

The results of the project show that farmers’ markets in BC have grown significantly over the past six years. More people are shopping at markets. Read more about the factors that influence farmers’ market shoppers, including the top five elements market shoppers consider when buying food.

Economic and Social Benefits Study

Summary Report

Press Release

Quicklinks

Mission Statement

To support, develop and promote farmers' markets in British Columbia.

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