FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 26, 2021
Horton Farmers’ Market to Move Under EDC Umbrella
Economic Development Corporation to take over management of the historic market
With a new year comes new opportunities and we are pleased to announce that, beginning with the 2021 market season, the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) will take over management of the Horton Farmers’ Market. This change came with the support of the Market’s existing Board of Directors and St. Thomas City Council, as the EDC offers numerous advantages to help the Market continue to grow and to thrive going forward.
Under the supervision of the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) and the overall direction of the St. Thomas EDC, the plan is to utilize the full marketing breadth of the organization, through the SBEC and Railway City Tourism, to continue to promote and grow the Market – maintaining its long tradition and ensuring that it remains a true signature experience in the community.
One of the key advantages of this proposal is the EDC’s ability to hire someone in a mixed role as Business Advisor and Market Manager who will work year-round, on a permanent basis. This will eliminate the stop and start challenges that are experienced today with the need to hire and train a new Manager each year, while also offering the ability to do more with the location and provide the backing for further activation opportunities on market days.
Mayor Joe Preston was pleased with he EDC’s proposal and noted that “This is a positive step for all those involved as we move towards a stronger commitment to celebrating local food and those who produce it in our region. I can’t wait for the first market day!” A By-law will go to City Council on February 1st to confirm the transition and a posting for the new mixed role will be public if that By-law is passed.
St. Thomas Economic Development CEO Sean Dyke offered confidence to those looking to exhibit at or attend the Horton Farmers’ Market in saying “We are committed to working with the vendors and other community partners, to run a vibrant and successful Market this year. We will, of course, have COVID precautions in mind as we work to get ready, but rest assured that there will most certainly be a Horton Farmers’ Market in 2021 and onward.”
The Horton Farmers’ Market was established in 1878 and is located on Manitoba Street in downtown St. Thomas.