Socio-Economic Aspects of the Farmers’ Market: A Case Study of the Baltimore and Camden Avenue Farmers’ Markets in Maryland (Published)
The study examined the socioeconomic aspects of farmers’ markets, focusing on vendors from The Baltimore Farmers’ Market and the Camden Avenue Farmers’ Market in Maryland. The study’s objectives were to analyze the socio-economic aspects of farmers’ markets and identify the challenges faced by the vendors. A total of 19 responses were collected from these two locations through in-person interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results indicated that the farmers’ market provided farmers with a direct channel for selling their produce to consumers, contributing to profitability and food production at the local level. Despite the realized socioeconomic benefits, the vendors encountered challenges, including high competition, lower profit margins, market risks, and market regulations. The study highlighted the vital role of farmers’ markets in promoting sustainable local food production systems and supporting the local economy
Keywords: Baltimore, Camden, Maryland, farmers' market, farmers' markets, socio-economic aspects