Small Irish Food and drinks producers often begin trading at local farmers' markets and the effect that such markets have in any start-up company’s development cannot be underestimated. Farmers’ Markets allow a company to develop a loyal customer base in their local community, to gather valuable 
feedback on their products as well as suggestions for new products; they are also essential in guaranteeing regular cash flow for small businesses which is all the more important in the current climate.
Farmers' Markets in Ireland have experienced considerable growth in recent years with fewer than 100 markets in 2006 and almost 150 currently in existence throughout Ireland. With unemployment on the increase, consumers are certainly keen to support local jobs and with producers usually manning stalls themselves, a farmers’ market is perhaps the most tangible way for them to do this.
Recognising the importance of Farmers’ Markets in Ireland, Mr. Trevor Sargent, then Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food with responsibility for Food and Horticulture, launched a pilot Good Practice Standard for Farmers’ Markets in 2009. The pilot Standard, which is voluntary, is denoted by a banner, which participating markets may display and which the Minister unveiled at the Food Market at BLOOM 2009 on Friday 29th May.
Farmers' Markets signing up to the Good Practice Standard will undertake to hold markets regularly; to stock a substantial proportion, ideally 50%, of local produce from the county or neighbouring counties; to accommodate seasonal and local garden/allotment produce, as well as compliance with food safety/labelling rules and criteria on good governance.
Applications are currently being accepted from markets seeking approval under the Code of Good Practice. The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 24th May 2011. These will be assessed and judged for suitability by an independent committee appointed by DAFF. A non-refundable application fee of €50 will be required to cover administrative costs. Successful applicants will receive certification and may apply for the banner featuring the Good Practice logo highlighting a variety of produce typically found at a Farmers' Market.
Click below to download a application form and information booklet on the code of good practice for farmers' markets (PDF format):
Booklet: Code of Good practice for Farmers' Markets
Application Form: Code of Good practice for Farmers' Markets
Any queries can be addressed to mary.morrissey@bordbia.ie