Nor are markets merely a middle class phenomenon. In neighbourhoods ill-served by supermarkets, they greatly improve access to fresh produce. The US runs two schemes to increase fruit and vegetable consumption by the poor and by women and children who are nutritionally at risk. Such policies improve public health and increase farm income without distorting food prices or supply. Most markets are organised by some combination of private individuals, local authorities and farmers.
Local authorities can offer a free site and help with publicity and administration.
Once a weekly market is established, publicity takes care of itself. The growth in farmers markets in the UK is astounding. Today some 150 towns and cities have held farmers markets. Nina Planck grew up on a fruit and vegetable farm in Virginia. D.C. She is the organiser of the London farmers markets.