The Shannon Farmers Market has become a bustling social outlet for locals to link up and get their weekly shopping every Thursday morning.
First introduced to the town on December 10, 2020, the market convenes each week, supporting up to 25 individual traders. Cork man Tom Gems who took over the Castletroy Farmers Market two years ago, helped establish the growing community of micro-businesses that now post up outside the Shannon Town Centre between 10am to 2pm.
With over 15 years’ experience in Farmers Markets, Tom recognises the potential within Shannon and it’s growing bond with the local community. “Everyone is happy here and there is a steady stream of locals. At lunchtime we have lots of segregated queues, outlined with chalk. Everyone is outside and they feel safe. It’s like a supermarket out in the open air where our 20 regular traders are building relationships with customers. Everyone is really enjoying it,” the former Sushi stall seller in Cornmarket Street Cork stated.
Traders serve burritos, burgers and chips, fresh doughnuts, smoothies and frozen yogurts, Indian shawarma wraps and Halloumi wraps. Tom also alluded to the much-lauded SOS cookies, which have been selling out all over Munster since its debut in December last year. The Shannon Farmers Market also houses a fish stall, a stall containing dog treats, fresh cheese, ground coffee and a stall selling hampers.
With potential to increase capacity to 40 traders, the Shannon Farmers Market continues to grow. “People should support the Farmer’s Market as sellers have very low rent and are able to sell wares at a reasonable price, without worrying about any large overheads. Customers come each day to put in their orders. They get to meet the owners of the companies and that’s something they really enjoy,” Tom commented.
Post-restrictions, he envisions that Shannon Farmers Market will have a large seating area in the middle and will cater for live music. An assembly of keen buskers are awaiting instruction from Tom and are keen to add to an ever-growing atmosphere outside Shannon Town Centre. “It’s important to shop local. We want everyone to know that the traders are extremely grateful for the support shown by the Shannon community. Everyone is following the guidelines and all traders are wearing masks,” Tom concluded.
Contact Tom Gems to put your pre-orders in for any stall or business at the Shannon Farmer’s Market at 085-131 9437.
