Market stall patisserie

Market shoppers, festival visitors and locals who become regulars and later pre-order cakes or boxes.

Direct sales of individual pastries and boxes at each market, with extra income from custom orders taken from regular customers.

• Pastry skills that hold up when made in volume
• Friendly selling and a good display
• Planning production around market days and weather

• Markets and health units may need a food permit for you and a temporary food event permit, so check with your local public health unit
• Kitchen rental costs can eat into margins if sales are slow
• Commercial general liability insurance, which many markets require as proof
• Outdoor markets are seasonal in much of Canada, with fewer options in winter
• Safe transport and temperature control for pastries, plus allergen labelling

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on kitchen rental, stall setup and equipment. Kitchen rental costs can eat into margins if sales are slow, so it is worth checking this before you commit.

Check whether markets and your local public health unit need a food permit for you and a temporary food event permit. Also check commercial general liability insurance, which many markets require, plus safe transport, temperature control and allergen labelling.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many markets you attend and what you sell. Expect at least about 12 hours a week, and note that outdoor markets are seasonal in much of Canada.