Joining a market

If you would like to join us as a producer come along to one of our markets and ask any of the producers to introduce you to the market manager. You will find us helpful and encouraging. The usual procedure for someone who wishes to join us is for them to serve at the market for a couple of weeks first. This allows you to see if you are really prepared to make the commitment. At the same time you get the chance to observe exactly what goods people are bringing in so that you can look out for a niche that you can fill.

FAQs

Who can join?

Anyone, male or female, may apply to join as long as they are over the age of 16 and have suitable produce to sell.

What can be sold?

Genuinely home-produced goods. In the case of perishable foods these must be freshly prepared and must not have been previously frozen:

How much does it cost?

It costs just five pence to become a member (shareholder). You are then able to sell at any of the Country Markets in The W. Midlands.

Are there any other costs?

You will need to purchase an invoice pad, approved Country Market labels and packaging materials. All these are available at the Market. You may also purchase a Country Markets Handbook, which contains all the information needed about producing for a Country Market. The Country Markets Head Office ensures that all producers are kept informed of the latest legal requirements by means of new policy guidelines.

Are there any rules?

We do have some rules to ensure that we comply with Legal Statutory Regulations (especially that concerning food safety), that our produce is safe for the consumer and reaches the high standards expected of Country Market produce. The Market Controller at each Market is responsible for ensuring that goods are up to the standards required.

What qualifications are needed?

All food handlers, including Country Market Producers, are required by law to undertake Food Hygiene training. Our cooked-food Producers must have a Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering. If you haven't got one already, the Market will advise you on how to obtain one. It involves a few hours of tuition followed by a multiple-choice test.

How do I join?

Come along to a Country Market and introduce yourself to the Market Manager who will be able to tell you all you need to know. You can e-mail us at cookcraftgrow@gmail.com Or phone 0792 986 0368