| Abstrakt: |
Farmers' markets revitalise public spaces. They create a place of diversity and interest and provide consumers with an opportunity to purchase fresh, local and seasonal foods in a social and community-focused environment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the backgrounds, attitudes and motivations of 633 customers at 17 farmers' markets in Sydney. We found that shoppers were motivated by a variety of social, ethical, health and environmental factors. Customers looked to purchase high quality, fresh, nutritious and locally produced foods that had been grown or made using sustainable and environmentally friendly farming and food production methods. Forming direct relationships with producers and fostering community connections were also seen as important benefits of farmers' markets. A collaborative approach involving market managers, community and government groups, planners, developers, health organisations, producers and consumers is required to identify, trial and fund strategies to promote farmers' markets as an affordable, beneficial and convenient shopping option for all members of the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
