How can I sell at the market?

Selling at En-form Farmers' Markets

En-form operates two Farmers Markets, one at Colchester and one at Clacton. Both of them are held monthly. Colchester is on the third Friday of the month and Clacton on the second Saturday and Sunday. We also have close links with other local Farmers' Markets.

There is a waiting list for some products at some markets.

Details of our markets are set out below:

Our markets operate under Farmers Market rules and our own policies

Farmers' Market Rules. How do I qualify?

Locally Produced

Only produce from a defined area shall be eligible for sale at a Farmers' Market. The most local producer to the market will be given preference, subject to compliance with our rules, quality of produce, reliability and a position at the market being available.  En-form markets have a defined area of a 30 mile radius of Colchester (exceptions can be made for unusual products). Producers outside this range will only be considered if a position is available.  

Principal Producer

The principal producer or a representative directly involved in the production process must attend the stall. They must sell their own fresh produce directly to the public.

You may not purchase and resell another farmer's produce. You must grow or produce the ingredients in processed foods, such as cheese, apple juice, or sausages. You must also make the cheese, juice, or sausages yourself (with one or two exceptions). 

Primary, Own Produce

All produce sold must be grown, reared or caught by the stall holder within the defined area. You may not purchase and resell another farmer's produce. You must grow or produce the ingredients in processed foods, such as cheese, apple juice, or sausages. You must also make the cheese, juice, or sausages yourself (with one or two exceptions). 

Secondary, Own Produce

All secondary producers for example preserve or cake producers must comply with the following rule.

All produce sold must be brewed, pickled, baked, smoked or processed by the stallholder using ingredients of origin within the defined local area. For example you must buy eggs from a local primary producer and not from a local supermarket.

Other Rules

If you sell alcohol, you must be licensed to sell at Farmers' Markets.

What will increase your chances of getting a space?

High standards

We favour good practices: for example, humane treatment of animals and sustainable methods including, but not limited to, organic and biodynamic production. The fewer chemicals you use, the better. Animals should be free-range. Meat should be free of additives and hormones.

Variety

The best stalls have a range of produce, rather than one crop. We also like multiple varieties of one vegetable or fruit. We encourage unusual varieties and rare breeds.

Superior Quality

We look for fruit and vegetables with superior flavour. Grow good-tasting varieties or breeds and the customers will come back again and again.

Regular Attendance

You must attend every market within your season unless previously arranged. One months notice is required unless their are exceptional circumstances. The stall fee will apply in the case of missed markets unless absence has been agreed. Trial stalls may be available to allow you to test a market before committing yourself.

Do I have to be organic?

No. But organic foods are in high demand. In any case, the fewer chemicals, the better

Visit Us: See where we are here . We are open from 10am to 4pm on Wednesday to Saturday.

Post: 15 Church Walk, Colchester, Essex. CO1 1NS.

Telephone & Fax: 01206 367776