Farmers’ markets across New Brunswick recently met for the first time to work together and discuss their future.
One of the key discussions was about the possibility of forming a provincial farmers’ market association.
The conference, held last Monday in Fredericton, brought together representatives from 20 markets.
The focus was on teamwork, with vendors sharing ideas on how to overcome funding gaps, staffing issues, and long-term sustainability.
Suzanne Fournier, executive director of the National Farmers Union in New Brunswick, said forming a farmers’ market association has been discussed for years, but New Brunswick remains one of the few provinces without one.
“Many other provinces already have farmers market associations, which provide vendors with collective support, help negotiate insurance policies, and improve access to funding,” Fournier said.
As discussions continued, organizers explored whether an association could help vendors push for better resources, share costs, and strengthen their presence in communities.
Fournier said that while some financial support is available, it often isn’t enough for some markets.
“There is a little bit of funding available through the Department of Agriculture for plumbing and electrical upgrades,” she said. “But that doesn’t go very far for a small seasonal market.”
Alongside financial concerns, certain markets are also noticing a decline in foot traffic.
Fournier said some vendors worry farmers’ markets are turning into more of a tourist attraction rather than a reliable shopping option for locals.
“A lot of markets rely on tourism, and while that helps, farmers’ markets need strong local support to survive long-term,” she said.
However, she emphasized that the National Farmers Union is not leading the effort to form an association and that the decision rests with the markets themselves.
“It’s really up to the markets to decide if this is what they want,” she said.
“The Farmers Union is happy to support them if they pursue it, but we’re not advocating for it.”
A report summarizing discussions at the conference will be shared with farmers markets and government officials in the coming weeks.
Fournier adds that markets across the province are now more connected than ever as they work toward solutions for their future.
