The summer Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market (KFCM), one of the third largest in B.C., delivered a nearly $16 million economic impact to the community in 2023.
That is the finding in a study of 70 markets conducted by the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM) and University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC).
Direct sales totalled $10.53 million and the market had a $15.79 million overall impact on the local economy. The study also revealed that the downtown version of the market, at Kerry Park, had a $2.33 million overall economic impact.
The winter market at Parkinson Recreation Centre was not included.
BCAFM executive director, Heather O’Hara, says the study demonstrates the importance and value of farmers’ markets and their social and community impact.
“They’re a place to meet with your neighbours and get the community vibe. A gathering place, and a community hub with social capital.”
The study shows 85 per cent of people who shopped and visited the summer Kelowna market last year were local, and 15 per cent were tourists and day-trippers. On average shoppers spent $59.46 per visit to this market (provincial avg. $42.50), and 51 per cent of survey respondents said they visited either market regularly. O’Hara says that’s a win-win for the markets and surrounding businesses.
“You’re bringing people into the community where they might be staying over, they are shopping at adjacent businesses as are locals.”
The study showed that approximately $8.2 million was spent at neighbouring businesses during the summer market in 2023.
That market has been a fixture at Dilworth Drive and Springfield Road for the past 25 years, but now has a new home in Landmark District. It opens on April 6. O’Hara says that is a testament to stakeholders and the community.
“They have figured out a solution to an important community asset.”
READ MORE: Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market relocating after 25 years
Across the Thompson-Okanagan, the 27 BCAFM member markets had a $50 million economic impact on the region, with Kelowna contributing $15 million of that total, according to O’Hara.
“Most businesses and government decision-makers understand that farmers’ markets in their area are a big win.”
Provincially, farmers’ markets contributed a $233 million overall impact to the B.C. economy last year.
The 2023 study builds on previous reports conducted in 2006 and 2012. O’Hara says the BCAFM is seeing more and larger markets, and increased economic impact.
“That’s a lovely trend. People care about their local food security, supporting local farmers, and where their food comes from.”
She encourages cities and towns across the province to create and support farmers’ markets in their communities.
“Take care of your food lands, take care of your farmers by shopping and supporting local because that is a long-term, sustainable view.”
The full study is available on the BCAFM website.
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