The highly anticipated return of the Kinross Farmers’ Market on Saturday was marred by a public disagreement between market organizers and a local farm, leaving some residents questioning the market’s procedures and communication.
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, a large turnout of shoppers flocked to Kinross High Street to welcome the market back for its first event of the year. The lively atmosphere, however, was overshadowed by a social media post from Arngask Home Farm, located near Glenfarg. The farm announced their last-minute withdrawal from the market, citing complaints about their products. Allegations of Complaints and “Awful Behaviour”
In a Facebook post published Saturday morning, Arngask Home Farm, owned and operated by Eilidh and Lloyd Verstage, stated that two unnamed businesses at the market had “objected in the strongest manner” to their presence with steak pies, lamb, and eggs. This last-minute notice, they claimed, left them with a surplus of unsold pies and a loss of income. Furthermore, the post expressed their distress over experiencing “awful behaviour” without providing specific details. The post concluded with a plea to customers to visit their farm to purchase the excess steak pies or to find them at the Rosemains Market in Pathhead. Market Organizers Respond to “Vitriol and Misinformation”
The Kinross Farmers’ Market, known for showcasing over 25 local producers and running monthly from April to October, is an initiative of the Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation (KLEO). Following the farm’s post, KLEO’s volunteer committee issued a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the “vitriol, misinformation, and accusations” directed towards them. The committee strongly refuted the claim that any vendor had been banned from the market, labeling it a “myth.” They committed to a thorough investigation into the incident and a direct response to the involved parties. KLEO also pledged to address any shortcomings in their processes or communication that may have contributed to the situation. They emphasized their reliance on community support and asked for continued understanding as they worked to rectify any mistakes. Community Support Rallies Behind Farm
Following the initial online post and the subsequent response from KLEO, Arngask Home Farm experienced an outpouring of support from the local community. A later update on their Facebook page reported that they had sold out of steak pies due to customers rallying to their aid. The farm expressed gratitude for the community’s “kindness” and acknowledged the overwhelming demand at their farm shop. They asked customers to consider visiting in the following days to alleviate the pressure caused by the sudden influx of traffic. Questions Remain
While the farm enjoyed a positive outcome thanks to local support, the incident raises questions about the Kinross Farmers’ Market’s internal processes. The market, founded in 2015 by KLEO with support from the Community Food Fund, aims to promote local businesses and provide a platform for producers to connect with customers. This public disagreement highlights the importance of clear communication and transparent procedures to ensure the smooth operation of such initiatives, fostering a positive environment for all participants.
This incident also underscores the significant impact of social media within the Perth and Kinross community. News travels quickly in our closely-knit area, and the rapid response from residents demonstrates the power of local support for businesses facing challenges. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk by Loch Leven or catching a performance at Perth Concert Hall, we often encounter familiar faces and businesses, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our community.
As the market season continues, residents will be keen to see how KLEO addresses the issues raised and what steps are taken to ensure a more harmonious relationship between vendors and organizers in the future.
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, a large turnout of shoppers flocked to Kinross High Street to welcome the market back for its first event of the year. The lively atmosphere, however, was overshadowed by a social media post from Arngask Home Farm, located near Glenfarg. The farm announced their last-minute withdrawal from the market, citing complaints about their products. Allegations of Complaints and “Awful Behaviour”
In a Facebook post published Saturday morning, Arngask Home Farm, owned and operated by Eilidh and Lloyd Verstage, stated that two unnamed businesses at the market had “objected in the strongest manner” to their presence with steak pies, lamb, and eggs. This last-minute notice, they claimed, left them with a surplus of unsold pies and a loss of income. Furthermore, the post expressed their distress over experiencing “awful behaviour” without providing specific details. The post concluded with a plea to customers to visit their farm to purchase the excess steak pies or to find them at the Rosemains Market in Pathhead. Market Organizers Respond to “Vitriol and Misinformation”
The Kinross Farmers’ Market, known for showcasing over 25 local producers and running monthly from April to October, is an initiative of the Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation (KLEO). Following the farm’s post, KLEO’s volunteer committee issued a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the “vitriol, misinformation, and accusations” directed towards them. The committee strongly refuted the claim that any vendor had been banned from the market, labeling it a “myth.” They committed to a thorough investigation into the incident and a direct response to the involved parties. KLEO also pledged to address any shortcomings in their processes or communication that may have contributed to the situation. They emphasized their reliance on community support and asked for continued understanding as they worked to rectify any mistakes. Community Support Rallies Behind Farm
Following the initial online post and the subsequent response from KLEO, Arngask Home Farm experienced an outpouring of support from the local community. A later update on their Facebook page reported that they had sold out of steak pies due to customers rallying to their aid. The farm expressed gratitude for the community’s “kindness” and acknowledged the overwhelming demand at their farm shop. They asked customers to consider visiting in the following days to alleviate the pressure caused by the sudden influx of traffic. Questions Remain
While the farm enjoyed a positive outcome thanks to local support, the incident raises questions about the Kinross Farmers’ Market’s internal processes. The market, founded in 2015 by KLEO with support from the Community Food Fund, aims to promote local businesses and provide a platform for producers to connect with customers. This public disagreement highlights the importance of clear communication and transparent procedures to ensure the smooth operation of such initiatives, fostering a positive environment for all participants.
This incident also underscores the significant impact of social media within the Perth and Kinross community. News travels quickly in our closely-knit area, and the rapid response from residents demonstrates the power of local support for businesses facing challenges. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk by Loch Leven or catching a performance at Perth Concert Hall, we often encounter familiar faces and businesses, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our community.
As the market season continues, residents will be keen to see how KLEO addresses the issues raised and what steps are taken to ensure a more harmonious relationship between vendors and organizers in the future.