VENDORS HANDBOOK AND MARKET GUIDE

The mission of the Broad Rock Farmers Market is to provide residents of the Broad Rock community with easy access to fresh, nutritious, and locally produced food. Our goal is to support small-scale farmers and makers, promote environmental stewardship and agriculture education, and build a stronger, more connected community.

MARKET RULES AND GUIDELINES

I. Market Hours

The market operates every 1st and 3rd Saturday from May 3rd to October 18th, between 8:00 AM and 12 Noon.
Vendors must be fully set up and ready by 7:45 AM and remain until market close at 12:00 PM.

II. Market Location

📍 3300 Broad Rock Blvd., Richmond VA 23224 (Second Baptist Church parking lot)

III. Vendors

All produce vendors must grow or process the majority of the products they offer. Only a limited selection of resale items is permitted. Used, antique, or non-agricultural items are prohibited unless approved. Agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, honey, and eggs should come from the vendor’s own land unless exceptions apply for regionally unavailable crops. All items are subject to inspection by the Market Manager.

Vendor Requirements:

Advertising – The Caring and Sharing Foundation advertises the Broad Rock Farmers’ Market to drive traffic to your booth. Vendors are encouraged to use the Broad Rock Farmers’ Market logo and promote their participation on social media.
Signs – Vendors must display a sign clearly listing their business name and prices.
Parking – Vendors must park in designated areas. Instructions will be provided by the Market Manager.
Pricing – Vendors are responsible for pricing and tax compliance. Promotion of off-site businesses is not allowed (except farm stands).
Music – Amplified music or paging systems are not allowed. Silent generators may be used with prior approval.
Smoking Policy – No smoking, vaping, or tobacco use. Open flames are prohibited.
Drugs & Alcohol – The use or sale of illegal drugs, alcohol, or CBD products is strictly prohibited.
Organic Labeling – Vendors must follow Virginia Department of Agriculture guidelines when using the term “organic.”
Staff/Volunteers – Vendors are responsible for the conduct of their staff and volunteers.
Conduct – Disruptive or inappropriate behavior will result in removal from the market.
Media – The market may take photos/videos for promotional use. Vendors consent to the use of their image for this purpose.

🛑 No tobacco, cannabis, or alcoholic products may be sold or consumed on-site.

IV. Booth Set-Up & Take Down

Set-up begins at 7:00 AM. Vendors must be fully set up by 7:45 AM.
Vendors must bring their own tents, tables, certified scales, signage, price lists, packaging, and change.
Anchor weights are required for all tents to prevent damage or injury.

V. Food Safety Guidelines

All food must be handled safely and kept properly protected against contamination.

Vendors must:

Refrigerate eggs at 45°F or below
Store food items at least 6 inches off the ground
Use clean disposable gloves (separate for money handling vs. produce)
Provide sanitary samples and utensils
Use trash receptacles for sample waste
Maintain clean equipment and storage containers
Keep cold-holding foods at 41°F or below
Use BRFMKT-provided handwashing and sanitizing stations

VI. Clean-Up

Vendors must clean up all trash, debris, and materials from their booth space. On-site trash bins are available.

VII. Vendor Fees

$325.00 – Full Market Season (due April 28th)
$50.00 – Monthly (due 1st & 3rd Monday of the month)
$25.00 – Per Market (due Monday prior)
$15.00 – Application Fee (non-refundable, due April 1st)
10% discount for full-season early payment.
Checks payable to: Caring and Sharing Foundation, Inc.

VIII. Inclement Weather

The market operates rain or shine. In the case of extreme weather, vendors will be notified of cancellations via email or phone.

IX. Market Day Best Practices

● Submit a full list of products to be sold
● Confirm origin of all produce
● Submit organic documentation (if applicable)
● Provide bilingual signage (English and Spanish)
● Email product list to the Market Manager by end of day Monday
● Promote your booth on Instagram/Facebook
● Maintain a professional and visible online presence

X. Non-Negotiables

● Must be fully set up by 8:00 AM
● Comply with all food safety and non-negotiable rules
● Adhere to fee schedule as outlined

CARING AND SHARING FOUNDATION