StarPhoenix Innovation in store as Sask. farmers’ markets move online | The Star Phoenix

A morning spent browsing the stalls at a farmers’ market is a favourite pastime of many a local food-minded consumer. Chatting with farmers and food artisans in person and learning first-hand how they raise their animals, grow their produce or hand-craft various products is a unique experience.

While that’s on hold for now, it’s not necessarily negative. Physical distancing measures amid the pandemic have prompted many businesses to innovate by offering services and products online.

Flat Out Food: Innovation in store as Saskatchewan farmers’ markets move online Back to video

Perhaps the most impressive entrepreneurial success story in Saskatchewan is that of our two main farmers’ market co-operatives. In Saskatoon and Regina, each market has transitioned hundreds of vendors selling thousands of products to online platforms, while also offering home delivery.

It was an obvious move to make, says Holly Laird, executive director of the Regina Farmers’ Market.

“We’ve been around for 45 years. We have always supplied the citizens of Regina and surrounding areas with all of these local products — and a lot of them are essential products. For me, the only answer was to keep doing what we do best. If we can’t have an event-style market, then let’s do something different,” Laird says.