Steve Garrett

I’ve always been drawn to markets. Wherever I’ve travelled in the world, markets have fascinated me - the way they bring people together, connect food producers with customers, and create a sense of community. They’re more than places to shop; they’re hubs of resilience and culture.

When I lived in Canada for several years, I was amazed by the sheer number and variety of local food markets. They weren’t just selling food - they were shaping healthier lifestyles and stronger communities. That experience planted a seed: I wanted to bring that same energy home to Wales.

I also understood the bigger picture. The production and transportation of processed food is a major contributor to global warming and poor public health. I wanted to offer people an alternative - something that was better for them, better for farmers, and better for the planet.

So, I started my business with a clear mission:
To make local, sustainably produced food accessible to people in Cardiff. To help build a financially viable Welsh local food economy. To give local producers a platform to market their products directly. To contribute to Cardiff’s identity as a Sustainable Food City. And above all, to foster a sense of community wherever our markets operate.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Marketing on a limited budget was tough, but we built loyalty and trust through social media and regular newsletters. Convincing people that locally produced food - often more expensive - was worth the extra took time and effort. We didn’t want anyone excluded, so we encouraged cooking from scratch with fresh ingredients to make healthy meals affordable. In our own small way, we’ve been nudging Wales toward a food culture that’s better for farmers, customers, and the environment.

What’s the best part of being my own boss? It’s the satisfaction of seeing customers and producers appreciate what we do. Nothing ever goes exactly to plan, but I’ve learned to see setbacks as lessons rather than failures. That mindset makes the journey rewarding.

Areas of Specialism:
Business Planning | Marketing