THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay Country Market is planning to reopen its Dove Building location to the public starting this weekend. “We know the market has really evolved into a community gathering place over the years and a spot to catch up with friends— we can’t wait to get back to a time that it will be safe to do so. But in the meantime, similar to a grocery or retail store, Thunder Bay Country Market is following provincial regulations to ensure the health and safety of our vendors, shoppers and the community. Limited vendors onsite will now only be offering produce, baked goods and groceries for the time being, as we implement the first phase of reopening Thunder Bay Country Market to the public,” explains Kelly Fettes, President of Thunder Bay Country Market Board. “We want our shoppers to feel safe and at ease when they visit. So, with a little creative thinking, we have developed extra safety measures for all those in attendance. It will still be the local experience you love, but at a distance.”
The doors will open on Saturday, May 30th, for those wanting to shop onsite and make purchases from their favourite local producers and vendors.
Customers will be encouraged to purchase what they need and keep moving, with the market’s new ‘Shop, Don’t Stop’ strategy in place.
For almost 25 years, Thunder Bay Country Market has connected local farmers and producers with the community. The market will now be open to foot traffic on Saturdays only from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, while Wednesdays will continue to be reserved for online order pickups. The online store will still be available for those who prefer to do their shopping on the web at www.tbcm.ca.
Market goers can expect vendor booths to be further apart with only two shoppers permitted to a booth at a time, you will see a reduction in vendors onsite, and the market team will be limiting the number of customers that will be inside the facility. New market marshals will also be seen in bright vests to help answer any questions, move traffic along and remind people about social distancing measures.
“We know people are eager to get back to market shopping— the community wants to be able to access local producers and farmers. Many people rely on the market, and the farmers and producers rely on them,” says Annet Maurer, Manager of Thunder Bay Country Market. “Customers make an effort to buy locally grown and produced food because they trust it. They appreciate where their food is coming from and feel reassured knowing local food and products travel less and is safely handled, coming right from the farm to your shopping bag. Our vendors are resilient, hardworking individuals and they are committed to serving Thunder Bay.”
The Market Kitchen will also be open on Saturdays, but for takeout only. The dining area will not be available. There will be approximately 20 vendors on-site, located inside and outside the facility. For further details please visit: www.tbcm.ca
Market-goers are reminded to follow and respect public health recommendations including physical distancing and cough etiquette at all times while on site. If you are sick, please stay home. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the site.
