More farmers’ markets, shops welcoming customers again

WATERLOO REGION — More local farmers’ markets and farm stores are preparing to welcome customers again in the wake of pandemic-forced closures.

After a couple of successful dry runs, Herrle’s Country Farm Market in St. Agatha opens again on Thursday, with safety measures in place for the store and curbside pickups offered a couple of times a week.

“It has been our hardest season ever to plan for,” said Michelle Herrle, part of the family business team behind the popular market. “Flexibility is going to be the most important value in how we approach business.”

Herrle said the response during a pair of recent Friday-Saturday openings was very positive. “Our community is so supportive.”

Starting Thursday, Herrle’s should be open every day until Oct. 31. Like many stores, they’ve designated an entry and exit, placed physical distancing and oneway markers on the floor, and will limit the number of customers inside. They’re asking families to send only one shopper, if possible.

Masks aren’t required, but staff have them and are wearing them if they can’t maintain an appropriate distance. Customers can bring reusable bags or bins if they’re kept in the cart and self-packed at checkout.

Online ordering with select curbside pickup days is still available.

St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market officials told the Waterloo Chronicle that it will reopen Thursday. Only fresh produce and food vendors will be on hand; the food court will be closed, and there won’t be any entertainment or children’s activities.

The Cambridge and Kitchener farmers’ markets are both expected to reopen soon with new guidelines, but specific dates have not been set.

“Following the guidance of the provincial government and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, city staff is working as quickly as possible to gradually reopen the Kitchener Market and we hope to do so mid-June,” reads a statement from the city.

“We should have more information on exactly what this looks like soon. The health and wellness of our community, vendors, and staff continue to be our highest priority.”

Several other farm stores in the region are open to varying degrees. The store at Barrie’s Asparagus Farm and Country Market in North Dumfries is open, and there’s a drive-through option for asparagus and rhubarb as well.

Oakridge Acres Country Meat Store in North Dumfries is offering porch pickups, while Gillespie’s Garden, just south of Cambridge, has self-serve rhubarb available.

Faul Farms in North Dumfries is asking customers to preorder by email or phone before pickup at their store.