Meet the makers
How to find local food producers near you
Start with a food you buy regularly, then look for the growers, bakers or makers who sell it near you.
Start with farmers’ markets and farm shops
Check a market organiser’s website for trading days and the list of stallholders. Ask who grew or made what you’re buying. Farm shops can stock food from their own farm, other local producers and further afield, so check the label or ask staff.
Look for direct orders and veg boxes
Search for a product and your town or postcode, such as ‘sourdough bakery near Chelmsford’ or ‘veg box near me’. Check producers’ websites and profiles for collection points, order deadlines and minimum quantities. For a veg box, find out what varies by week and whether you can pause it.
Check the details before your first order
Try one product you already buy. Ask what’s ready this week, how to store it and whether you need to order ahead. Save the producer’s details and collection day if it suits your routine.