Organization Overview

1. A public market primarily sells food. Different public markets focus on different types of products, but typically, a shopper can find produce, meat, fish, dairy products, baked goods, coffee, spices, and various specialty and prepared foods. Some markets also sell flowers, beverages, crafts or other related non-food items.

2. A public market is open year-round. Unlike farmers markets, which often exist only seasonally and may pop up just once or twice a week, a public market is open daily, year-round, in a permanent location.

3. A public market is made up of small independent businesses, and often the shop or stall is owner-operated. Rather than one company selling every item, like you would find in a supermarket, a public market features dozens of vendors selling food and other products they made themselves.

4. A public market fulfills a public purpose beyond retail food sales. A public market is more than just a place to shop; it provides customers with an experience. A public market is a bustling and vibrant place that brings people together to taste new flavors, learn from educational workshops and classes, watch the process of food being made, or develop new friendships. A public market is a civic resource for everyone.