In the unusually warm weather of Sunday the 17th of February, I travelled to the weekly farmers’ market at Alexandra Palace to meet local sellers and talk about the importance of home-grown products.
With a range of over 30 stalls, selling everything from jams and gin to baked goods and burritos, the market buzzes with life. Right from the off it is clear that this event is more than an opportunity to sell – it’s also a thriving social hub for the community.
This market was established in 2001 and is the largest of the ten markets across London organised by The City and Country Farmers’ Market.
As consumers become more and more conscious of the ethics of the products in their shopping baskets, farmers’ markets are increasingly popular. Supporting small businesses often allows for more transparency, making it easier to ensure products are organic or homemade.
Environmentally, farmers’ markets are also much more sustainable than supermarkets. Buying seasonal produce reduces the amount of polluting air miles travelled while transporting products from overseas. The result is fresher, more ethical food for consumers.
Farmers’ markets also have the benefit of contributing to the local economy, preserving the independent spirit of the area as opposed to funnelling more money into transnational corporations.
I spoke to JC, the founder of Queenie Organics. Queenie produce organic, vegan skincare products that are environmentally conscious – their ingredients are completely palm free.
RS: Tell me about your company. How and why did you start it?
JC: I had problems with my skin, so I started making the product for myself; I wanted a natural, organic alternative to synthetic creams. I made it for a while until my friends said ‘this is quite good – you should think about selling it.’
RS: What are the benefits of buying from local companies?
JC: Well, the margin is smaller because I make and sell it myself. If you’re a big company, your money goes into marketing and packaging, whereas mine is put inside the product. You’re getting a much higher quality of product. Plus, you’re supporting local people – it’s quite hard running a small business. If you buy something from a shop, a lot of the money doesn’t go to whoever makes it.
RS: How can farmers’ market benefit the local community?
JC: I love trading here because I get to know all the stall holders, people who make their own things as well. And it’s good because people come out when it’s sunny, and they talk to people. It’s a definitely a social thing too.
You can find out more about Queenie Organics at the website (www.queenieorganics.com), or on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook (@queenieorganics).
You can find out more about the Alexandra Palace Farmer’s Market at https://www.alexandrapalace.com/farmers-market-2/
