Qualicum Beach, BC – (July 6, 2023) – Qualicum Beach Farmers Market is a significant
economic player in the Oceanside area, injecting over $8.4 million annually into the
local economy, according to a recent study.
“Although people know the market is a great place to buy fresh, local food,” said Launie
Elves, the farmers market manager, “the results of this study help us communicate to
others how valuable the farmers’ market is to our community.”
Over 136,000 people visit the farmers’ market annually and on the day of the study,
June 17, 2023, about 3,273 people visited the market. Roughly 10% of these visitors
participated in the survey. Over half of shoppers visit the market either ‘regularly’
(almost weekly) or ‘frequently’ (2-3 times per month).
The Qualicum Beach Farmers Market is participating in a province-wide study of the
economic benefits of farmers markets. “Farmers’ markets continue to serve as the face
of farming in BC,” said Heather O’Hara, Executive Director of the BC Association of
Farmers’ Markets. “There has been significant growth in the number and vitality of
farmers’ markets in BC and it is important to understand not only what they contribute
but also how much they contribute to local neighbourhoods, cities, and towns,” she
explained.
Dr. David Connell, a professor from the University of Northern BC who is leading the
project, added, “This project builds upon the results of a similar study we did in 2006
and in 2012. At the end of this project, we will be able to compare our results with these
past studies to see how much has changed.”
The Qualicum Beach Farmers Market has been a community staple since its
establishment in 1997, bringing together residents and visitors every Saturday morning
to connect with the region's talented makers, bakers, and growers. With a genuine
sense of camaraderie and support for local food producers, the market kicks off bright
and early with the ringing of the market bell. Friends and neighbors gather over hot
coffee and fresh snacks while perusing a diverse array of fresh farm produce and
offerings from emerging independent food producers.