The annual autumn event at Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market has become a growing hub for local vendors and businesses in Sarasota County, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the country. Located at Waterside Place, it features more than 100 vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods and other locally sourced products.
Many popular stands at the event sell locally sourced honey. There are also tallow pills for arthritis. HHgreentea, a pop up, sells matcha.
“I can educate people on Japanese culture and the health benefits of Matcha tea from Japan,” says owner Izumi Haraki Gordon.
The market itself has supported Lakewood Ranch’s reputation as one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the country.
For multiple vendors, the market is more than a sales pitch. Small business owners say it supports many connections between international and local concerns as well as brand loyalty and locally sourced services.
