Residents experienced a brand new Bradford Farmers’ Market this past Saturday with virtual online ordering and curbside pick up only.
Typically, the opening day of the farmer’s market is filled with people browsing a variety of goods from different vendors while kids dance to live music.
But this year’s opening day was quite different.
Drivers were greeted at the entrance of the library parking lot and instructed to line up in a queue along the curb.
Market manager Laura Vree confirmed names and orders before waving cars through to the appropriate six vendors. Drivers never had to leave their vehicles.
“It was fast and efficient,” said Vree. “There were never more than five to seven cars in queue and only a one to two minute wait”.
One hundred and seventy eight orders were placed online in advance so vendors could have everyone’s orders pre-packaged and ready for pick up.
“I was hoping for 150,” Vree laughed. “Next week, we want to break the 200 mark.”
Vree and her daughter Josephine Wilcox hustled around the lot placing customer’s orders into the back of their trunks or seats before driving off.
Vendors present at the market included Innisfil Creek Honey, Springh Farms, Speziale Fine Food, Say Cheese, Sweet Annabella’s, and The Polish Chef.
“The vendors were happy!” exclaimed Vree. “No one went home with anything”.
Owner of Springh Farms Shane Singh added that with all orders being done in advance, there were no unsold products at the end of the day.
“Since there was nothing sitting outside in the sun all morning, there was no waste!” he said.
All vendors were pleasantly surprised by how smooth the transition to an online market was. Customers were equally happy with the drive-by service too.
“I was so excited,” said Giselle Amaral, who drove up from Newmarket to pick up her goods. “There is no farmers’ market in Newmarket right now, so this is a great option!”
But as with any new system, Vree admitted there may be some growing pains as they transition to a new method.
“Sometimes we couldn’t find a name on the order list,” confessed Vree. “There are some limitations to the online software we (will need) to tweak”.
Other concerns included varying payment systems between the vendors, and problems logging into the virtual market to place an order.
“Overall, the response was great!” stated Vree. “We’d love (your) feedback!”
Vree said they could easily handle more orders, as more vendors will be added to the virtual market in the coming weeks.
To place your order online for next week’s Bradford Farmer’s Market, click here.