The Government of Canada announced it is investing $59,000 towards building three kiosks for the Pugwash Farmers Market.
The permanent kiosks, with electrical connections and lights, will offer an indoor setting for more vendors while improving customer experience and preventing service disruptions due to inclement weather.
The Municipality of the County of Cumberland is providing an additional $38,616 towards the project and the Pugwash Farmers Market Cooperative Limited raised $20,000 for the project over three years.
The market, which attracts local and seasonal residents as well as tourists, is an important regional draw for the community, generating significant economic benefits for vendors and area businesses, Cumberland-Colchester MP Bill Casey said during the announcement.
“The Pugwash Farmers’ Market draws large numbers of dedicated locals and out-of-area visitors, who regularly spend thousands of dollars at the venue and in area businesses,” Casey said. “And with updated facilities, the market will draw more consumers, who will linger longer, and spend more money, at the market, and in the county.”
The funding was allocated through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, which helps Atlantic communities to develop competitive industry sectors; strengthen infrastructure; enhance environmental performance; overcome economic challenges and build on their strengths to create long-term employment and economic growth.
Quick Facts
- The Pugwash Farmers’ Market, established in 2006, had 45 vendors in 2017.
- The new kiosks are designed to accommodate 32 vendors, though there will be flexibility to house more.
- A 2013 economic impact study by Farmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia revealed that Pugwash Farmers’ Market attracted nearly 1,400 visitors in a single day, who spent a total of nearly $17,000 at the market and $19,000 more in local businesses.
- Vendors come from throughout Cumberland County as well as Tatamagouche, Ontario and Massachusetts. The out-of-province vendors are summer residents.
