NEEFM is the umbrella organisation and action resource for farmers’ markets operators in the North East. Our members are the people who run farmers’ markets.

At farmers’ markets, you will find that:

• Only local produce is sold. In the North East, we tend to define ‘local’ as within a 50 mile radius.
• People will only sell their own produce, so you can be sure of where it comes from.
• The people selling at a farmers’ market are people actually involved in producing what they are selling, so they’ll be able to answer your questions.

Farmers’ markets certified with FARMA are committed to supporting these principles, that’s why all members of NEEFM are certified (or in the process of certification) by NEEFM.

On this website, you’ll find:

• Information on the dates and venues of farmers’ markets in the North East, and also contact details for the market operators.
• News about any special events coming up at farmers’ markets.
• Information about seasonal food.
• The portal to the regional Friends of Farmers’ Market website.

Do you want to sell your produce at a farmers’ market?

The basic requirements are:

1. The product you are selling is locally grown or reared or produced – using local ingredients as far as possible.
2. You grew or raised or baked or brewed or made the product yourself (or at least were one of the people closely involved).
3. You’re selling locally - most farmers' markets in the NE accept producers from up to 50 miles away.

You also need public liability insurance, and appropriate environmental health and trading standards certification.

And most markets have local rules  -  mostly to do with getting a good mix of stalls and keeping the market attractive and viable.

It pays to do a little 'market research' - so you know what is already being sold, how many stalls are there, and how many customers turn up.

Some markets are indoors and supply tables - but you might need a chiller, some are outdoors - and may or may not provide stalls. Rents in the North East range from about £20 - 55.

But - essentially - just phone up the market organiser and ask if you can come along. Go to the market directory for contact information.

And watch out for training events for would be producers, organised by NEEFM in co-operation with your local farmers’ market.

NEEFM is funded by Big Lottery Fund's Local Food scheme