Farmers’ markets in Wales: making the 'net' work?

The purpose of this paper is to examine the possibilities of increasing the benefits to be derived from farmers markets (FMs) in Wales, through utilisation of networks augmented by information communications and technology (ICT). In particular, the paper explores recent developments in the use of ICT in the agri-food sector and the need to develop networks to utilise such technology fully. The paper explores the administrative structures that may be required to allow these arrangements to be effectively organised. The use of FMs in Wales as a conduit for such networked arrangements, and the introduction of the South East Wales Association of Farmers’ Markets (SEWAFM) Web site, are then considered against this backdrop.