Market FAQ:
Funding sources
Vendor fees cover the basic cost of operating the markets, including site rental, permits, advertising, insurance and staffing under the reporting requirements of a 501 (c) 6 non-profit corporation. SSM does not receive any city, state or federal funds for its market activities.
Community Booths
SSM is proud to offer the market as a resource to other community-based non-profit organizations. Space is held for groups conducting educational outreach related to agriculture, sustainability & preservation of open space, for example. There is no charge for tabling or using the market stage. No sales are permitted from community booths. Pre-approval from PFM staff is required.
Vendor Information Release
SSM supports an open policy in regards to publishing the vendor roster (with pre-approval by the vendor). The roster of business names noting the products sold by each business is posted on the SSM website. Beyond that roster, no vendor’s name will be posted or given without signed permission by the vendor. The list of member/vendor information will not be shared or sold by the SSM staff or Board members.
Free Speech
Salem Saturday Market is a membership organization of small business owners meeting weekly to sell our fruits, vegetables, meats, honey and handmade arts to our local community. The public is welcome to participate in this gathering place. Current court cases do limit SSM authority to control the activities of members of the public attending the market. However, disruptive or rude activities interfere with these businesses by restraining peaceful trade. We ask that such activities be confined to the perimeter of the market so as not to disrupt business or disturb customers.
REASONS TO SHOP LOCAL (Just a few)
- Locally grown food tastes better and, because it’s fresher, it lasts longer.
- Buying local keeps more dollars in our community. One study shows that each dollar spent with a local business is worth $2.50 for the community.
- Buying local supports and strengthens local families and producers, providing jobs within our own community.
- Buying local products shrinks the number of miles food and all items have to travel before being eaten, using less fossil fuels and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
- Buying local connects our community and allows consumers to know the farmers, understand the seasons and respect the growing process.
- Buying local is about the future, sustaining local farms and businesses, helping preserve the unique character of our community and helping you become a more engaged citizen.
