A Bit of History

Markets began as an initiative of the W.I. movement in 1919 at a time of national economic difficulty and unrest following the First World War. They were able to help not only their members, but unemployed people, pensioners and
ex-servicemen to sell surplus garden produce.

Penzance W.I. Market was started in 1960. There are now hundreds of markets in England, Wales and the Channel Islands with an annual turnover well over £12 million. Although it is possible for individuals to make a reasonable profit from their produce, the markets are run as a co-operative by a non-profit making company, now separate from the W.I. and called Country Markets.

Throughout changing conditions the aims of the Markets have been the same- to make it worthwhile financially to keep gardens in cultivation, the prevent waste by encouraging good growing and harvesting, to help an increasing number of people to develope their skills and market their produce by working together
co-operatively.