Case Study: Eumundi Markets

The markets were started in 1979 with five or six stalls selling locally produced craft and produce. From a modest turnover of around $30 in 1979, today the markets are a thriving tourist attraction.

Held each Wednesday and Saturday, around 1.6M people visit the market’s 600 stalls and the economic impact is estimated at $120M per year (2008).

The markets were originally managed by the Eumundi Historical Association (EHA) on a volunteer basis.

In the 1990s managers were employed, initially on a part time and then a full time basis.

In 2008, the EHA continues to manage the ongoing tasks associated with the operation and future success of the markets, including administration, marketing and maintenance of infrastructures on the market site.

There are now 13 full time employees supported by casuals. The focus of the markets today is on Australian made craft products rather than on farmers’ produce. 

However, in January 2008, the EHA responded to a perceived need and successfully held four Thursday night markets focusing on food during the main tourist season.

Despite early resistance locally (concern about a potential adverse impact on the town and existing businesses), the success of the markets is now such that around 100 “permanent” market stalls have been built by a private developer close to the original Eumundi Markets site which are open daily.

With a focus on sustainability and world best practice, the management of the smoke free original Eumundi Markets is looking at banning the use of plastic bags and introducing organic recycling using biobins and compulsory compostable packaging.

Key success factors:

• Ability of the EHA in the late 1980s to acquire railway land which provides a permanent site in the middle of town with large shade trees
• A generous lease from Council for additional land
• Loyal stallholders selling a diverse range of quality Australian made products
   

To find out more about Eumundi Markets visit www.eumundimarkets.com.au