Organic food market stall

Market regulars, local families and health-conscious shoppers who like buying directly from a seller they know.

You sell at a mark-up on the organic products you buy in, with the highest sales on market days. Regular customers can also pre-order for pick-up.

• Friendly selling face to face
• Product knowledge
• Planning stock for each market
• Basic cash handling

• Check each market's vendor rules and application deadlines; many markets ask to see your food permit or registration before accepting you
• Selling food at markets usually requires a permit or approval from your local public health unit, and requirements vary by province and municipality, especially for open, unwrapped or repackaged items
• Products labelled as organic generally need to meet the Canada Organic Regime; check with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency before repackaging or making organic claims
• Seasonality: outdoor markets slow right down in winter, so look for indoor markets or pre-orders
• Commercial general liability insurance, which many markets require
• Unsold fresh produce is lost money, so start with a small stock

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your stall equipment, opening stock and market fees. Unsold fresh produce is lost money, so starting with a small amount of stock is sensible.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on which markets you attend, how often and what you sell. Outdoor markets slow down in winter, so look at indoor markets or pre-orders.

Check each market's vendor rules and deadlines, as many ask for your food permit first. Check permit needs with your local public health unit, Canada Organic Regime rules with the CFIA, and whether insurance is required.