Farmers Market Vendor Selection Criteria 2021

The Hamden Farmers Market is a place to buy fresh, local produce and artisan goods in a safe, festive,
community atmosphere. We are building opportunities to directly connect local farms and artists to our richly diverse Hamden communities as well as uplift and feature the myriad of Hamden businesses organizations right in our own backyard.

The Hamden Farmers Market is committed to creating a diverse marketplace with the highest quality
products produced locally. Although the market will not be bound to apply a particular set of selection
criteria in every instance and must reserve unconditional discretion to accept or refuse anyone as a
vendor, the market organizers consider many factors when evaluating vendor applications.

Agriculture

• Priority is given to those regional farmers and producers who bring product to market that is grown and harvested on farmland in (and surrounding) Connecticut, that they own and/or operate
• Preference will be given to local producers when space becomes available at the market, without compromising
  quality

Product quality, presentation and customer service

• Consistently high product quality: fresh and flavorful
• Clean and attractive displays
• Courteous, strong customer service and knowledgeable staff
• Foster a connection between the vendor and the consumer

Conduct and compliance

• History of compliance with market rules and federal, state and local regulations
• Positive vendor conduct toward customers, fellow vendors, market staff and volunteers
• Timely submission of application, fees, licenses and other market correspondence

Product balancing

• Products that are unique or unusual
• Products not already represented in the market
• Duplicate products may be denied entry
• Product not readily available through national distribution channels
• Product allows The Hamden Farmers Market to offer products at different price points to accommodate a diverse customer base

Food safety

• Adheres to the highest standards in production and handling

Space availability

• Admission is subject to space availability

Market needs

• Product complements the market’s mission—ie. demonstrates our direct producer to consumer values and reflects seasonal availability of products
• Support of market events (fundraiser, community programming demonstrations, etc.)

Seniority and history of participation

• Preference may be given to returning vendors
• Attendance record
• History of compliance with market rules
• Willingness to support/promote market
• Cooperation and enthusiasm

Artisan quality

• Unique and handmade of the highest quality