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The budding of trees and blooming of flowers mark the arrival of spring and so too does the return of Windsor-Essex's many farmers' markets as a new season begins.
Every week provides a fresh opportunity for local entrepreneurs to branch out, doing business in the open air. The setting is ideal to interact with customers and increase awareness of the goods and services you provide, making important connections along the way. Soon a loyal following may develop, keeping the customer returning time and again. Consumers can shop with confidence knowing where their purchases are grown and produced and vendors can gain insight into the habits and preferences of their customer base and fine tune their offerings.
Farmers' markets support community building and help drive traffic to the areas they serve. Market attendees are given the ability to be more engaged in their community and make new discoveries. Each year, thousands of area residents flock to their local markets to obtain quality items such as fresh produce flowers, and herbs. Market patrons also can treat their senses to the aroma of baked goods, grilled foods prepared on-site and pre-packaged fare that can be enjoyed in the weeks to come. In addition, market enthusiasts are typically treated to live music, product demonstrations and beautiful arts and crafts.
Our region is the ideal setting for such markets with mild weather being the key to having a long and prosperous season. One of the more popular and long-running markets, the Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market (DWFM), located at Pelissier St. and Maiden Lane is operating every Saturday this year, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from April 1st to October 28th. Residents head to downtown Windsor excited for the return of such favourites as Zuleeats, Little Foot Foods, Halo Heats and Auntie Aldoo’s Kitchen. New editions this year include Montaneros Coffee and Mary’s Mindful Bakery.
The Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC) is excited to continue the tradition of participating in the market with its Summer Company student entrepreneurs. We look forward to fostering the success of these student-run businesses later this summer.
There’s a renewed sense of hope for the 2023 season despite the decline of markets in the previous years due to the pandemic. You can keep track of local markets on social media and through the Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island’s (TWEPI) site: weheartlocal.ca.
Recently, the Amherstburg Farmers' Market at GL Heritage Brewing, located in Amherstburg at 8728 Howard Ave. opened for the season on April 22nd. The market is open every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Family friendly market events can go from day to night. Residents can now look forward to the return of two of our favourite night markets. The Mill St. Market in Leamington has recently announced their summer 2023 schedule. You can learn more and sign up as a vendor in the link provided. Also, the wildly popular Walkerville Distillery District Night Market has just announced dates for the 2023 season. Both Night Markets are planning to operate one night a month over the summer.
Overall, it’s looking like we’re headed for blue skies. Residents are ready to shed the dull grey and treat their senses to the sights, smells and sounds of the markets. Shopping local has never felt so good.
Become a client of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre and receive support in launching or expanding your small business, contact us for more information.
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