The Mission City Farmers’ Market has been recognized for its significant economic and social contributions.
The 2023 BC Farmers’ Market Economic Impact Study, conducted by the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM) in collaboration with the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), revealed the substantial benefits that the market brings to the local economy.
Mission’s Farmers’ Market, located on the south side of Centennial Park, operates every Saturday from May through October. It not only offers high-quality, locally-produced food, arts, and crafts but also serves as a gathering place for families and the community at large.
Key findings of the economic impact study included:
Annual Economic Impact: The market contributes approximately $480,000 annually to the local economy through direct sales.
Shopper Spending: On average, each shopper spends about $29.12 per market visit, resulting in an estimated 14,600 visits and nearly 11,000 shoppers annually.
Ripple Effect: With a multiplier effect of 1.5, the total annual economic contribution of the market is estimated to be $1.05 million.
Supporting Local Businesses: In addition to direct sales, market visitors spend around $268,000 annually at neighbouring businesses, further bolstering the local economy.
Community Engagement: 42% of market visitors attend regularly, showcasing the market’s role in fostering community ties.
According to a press release, the market is “proud to participate in the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program. This initiative supports lower-income families, pregnant people, and seniors by providing them with coupons to purchase fresh, nutritious foods directly from local farmers. This program enhances food security while supporting local agriculture.”
The market acknowledges its presence on the traditional and unceded territory of the Stó: lo Peoples and is committed to promoting and protecting traditional food systems alongside contemporary local farming.
Since its launch on April 24, 1996, the Mission City Farmers’ Market has remained steadfast in its mission to “Make, Bake, Grow.”
