Bradenton Farmers’ Market introducing virtual store during pandemic
The Bradenton Farmers’ Market has launched an online store to allow customers to purchase local fruits, produce, and artisan foods directly from local vendors.
In response to Florida’s Safer-At-Home Order, Realize Bradenton developed Shop.RealizeBradenton.com, an online storefront, offering curbside pickup every Saturday. The physical weekly market has been canceled through May 8.
Beginning 4 p.m. Monday, customers may shop and securely place their online order by visiting shop.RealizeBradenton.com. All orders placed between Monday and 9 p.m. Wednesday will be filled on Saturday of the same week.
To pick up an order, customers must bring a copy of their confirmation email (or have it available on their smartphone) to the designated pickup location 10 a.m. - noon Saturday at Angel Oak Café , 2004 Sixth Ave. W., one block south of Manatee Ave. West, just behind the Bank OZK branch. Customers are encouraged to open their trunk and have volunteers load the order into their vehicle.
Johnette Isham, executive director of Realize Bradenton, said the cafe’s involvement will allow them to offer items requiring refrigheration.
“Our connection with the vendors and local growers is more than a business relationship — it’s a collaboration. Together, we brainstormed ideas about how we could bring products and fresh produce to the community at the time that they need it most. This cooperation is what makes the Bradenton Farmers’ Market extra special,” market manager Peg Haynes said in a press release.
The Bradenton Farmers’ Market Online Store will begin with eight vendors: Milagros Farms, Sunshine Canning, Olive Branch, Pure Florida Honey, Saucy Guys, Honeyside Organic Farms, Blue Lily Farm, and Hickey Hollow Urban Farm. A variety of locally grown produce, organic produce, sauces, pickled vegetables, jam, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and locally produced honey will be offered. The Bradenton Farmers’ Market expects to include additional vendors in time.
In addition to accepting PayPal and major credit cards, those who purchase their food products at the market using the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Fresh Access Bucks (FAB), which are USDA funded nutrition incentive programs, can also place their orders online.
For the latest information about how to support local downtown Bradenton businesses, visit RealizeBradenton.com/BringItHome.
This story was originally published April 17, 2020 at 4:57 PM.
