Strolling through the farmer’s market
September 7, 2008
St. Charles
by Kris Kolk
The month of October is “Eat Local/Buy Local Month.” Admittedly, I really haven’t been too conscious of this concept.
Since I have committed to take the buy local plunge for the month of October, a stroll through the St. Charles Farmer’s Market was in order—as a preview.
On the riverfront, near Frontier Park on Saturday mornings, the St. Charles Farmer’s Market meets. Offerings are varied, which is a good thing. Apples, corn on the cob, tomatoes, peaches, watermelon, goat meats and cheeses, and bakery items were all displayed.
I purchased a half peck of peaches (about 16 peaches) for $6. I thought this price was quite reasonable.
I’m hoping that Jim Kunstler was wrong when he said localism is merely a fashion statement for the well-to-do. I am hoping that residents will consistently be able to purchase locally-grown and locally-made items at reasonable prices.
However, to Kunstler’s credit, some items at the farmer’s market did seem to be festival priced. Like when you find cotton candy at a carnival for $5. It’s unreasonable. You know it’s unreasonable, but you buy anyway, because it sounds yummy and you’re in the moment.
A family’s budget may afford a rare splurge at a special event. But, for families to rely on local markets for their staff of life, well, that $5 cotton candy will be bypassed most of the time.
The other half of the transaction
For buyers to be convinced to spend money, sometimes at a premium, they must know they are being treated fairly. Our traditional business model encourages businesses to grow bigger and bigger, often at the expense of the local economy.
By rejecting this outdated model, sellers are free to embrace a “living return.” A living return is an adequate monetary return instead of a huge profit. This promotes a healthier local economy, which will benefit everyone.
Some sellers seem to be underestimating their worth to the community. Instead of presenting their offerings as boutique-like specialties, they could instead become relied on to provide consistent sustenance for area families.
So, ideally, we have buyers willing to pay a smidge more for locally-grown and created items. On the other side of the transaction, we have sellers who are OK the concept of “enough” profit.
Saturday at the farmer’s market was a treat. I think most sellers get that it’s a community thing.
I’m looking forward to proving Kunstler wrong this October!
(For more reading on local economies, check out this site.)
Copyright 2008 Neighbors About Town