Grand Opening Lancaster Farmers Market 2010

Do you recognize the lady ringing the bell?

The farmers market in Lancaster Ohio has a shared set of beliefs and values. As we walked around the market observing the farmers market consumers we could sense a feeling of working together. Each person there knew that they were contributing to something, whether they understood just how much they were contributing is not for me to say. Each individual does things for their own reasons. The Farmers Market is a family, a team, a group all working together for a common goal. The organization of the market is not only the sellers but also the consumers.    

Organizational culture A shared set of beliefs and values within an organization

In 1994, there were approximately 1,755 farmers markets in the United States. In 2009 their numbers had more than tripled — to more than 5,270. In excess of 3 million consumers shop and more than 60,000 farmers sell at these markets annually. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that these markets generate an estimated $1.2 billion in consumer spending each year.

Organizational Purpose, Mission and Strategy: Planning for Growth 

From small scale hobby gardeners to large scale local commercial operations, our vendors are proud local growers of produce and and fine bakers, cooks and craftsmen. So, buy the best produce you've ever had, grown locally with care.

Mission: statement of purpose

Great Harvest Mission Statement:Be Loose and Have Fun. Bake Phenomenal Bread.Run Fast To Help Customers. And Give Generously to Others

No one knows more about the product than the grower. The farmer is a great resource to learn how and where the food is grown, preparation tips and more. You may even get to sample the product before buying.

Strategy: Guides organizations to operate in ways that outperform competitors

When people work together to find farmers' markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in their communities, where they can buy produce, grass-fed meats, and many other goodies, they are working together to achieve a common purpose.

Team Work