When you walk through a market, everyone who works or sells shows a sense of enthusiasm, passion, and community, says Roz White, White's IGA co-owner, adding that Brisbane is the Milton Farmers' Market or the James Street market could be both very different in atmosphere and aesthetics but combined with the same desire to offer fresh, high quality products and great services.
"Shopping on the marketplace has something raw and health-promoting that is appealing and meaningful and that makes it targeted for buyers and communities," Ms. Roz told Retail World.
The frequent expansion and further development of marketplaces supports the ability to offer a range of locally produced products. This factor is particularly important in every type of market: the idea of promoting locally grown, procured and manufactured products.
Aussies like to buy Aussie made
Ben Lazzaro, CEO of the Australian Made Campaign, points out the domino effect of buying Australian products.
"When you buy products made in Australia and grown in Australia, you are pumping money back into the economy, which helps maintain Australian jobs, strengthen local industry and support local communities," he said.
Mr. Lazzaro cited a recent study by Roy Morgan that found 80 percent of consumers surveyed preferred Australian food and drink, 77 percent for the country's agricultural and gardening products, and 73 percent for child and baby care products. 72 percent for animal products and animal care and 65 percent for construction and renovation materials.
Now more than ever …
New research has been released weekly over the past few months, suggesting the likelihood of economic decline in Australia as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tourism Australia encourages Australians to travel within their state or territory and support the local economy. However, if travel is not on a consumer's agenda, buying local products is considered equally helpful.
This is where marketplaces and retailers come into play, with the storage and promotion of products from Australian production.
For more information on the market and its role in supporting local and Aussie-made products, see the latest issue of Retail World magazine.
