The new Harvest Market located in downtown Bradford saw a steady flow of customers Saturday as it celebrated its official grand opening.
“The activity and ambiance is wonderful!” expressed Mayor Rob Keffer. “[Owner] Liz Gorzo brought this idea to the downtown area for all residents to be able to come and shop and have fresh produce and other items – crafts, pastries… a good selection for people to come and enjoy."
The large interior which used to house F.K. Textiles showcased a variety of fresh farm vegetables, gourds and pumpkins, pies and other pastries, crafts, pottery, and other artisans.
Joined by members of council and the Bradford Board of Trade (BBT), Gorzo was presented with certificates from both the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and the BBT, congratulating Gorzo and her family on the success of the new market.
“Just wanted to thank you Liz for opening up the Holland Marsh Farmer’s Market in the downtown Bradford,” expressed BBT Director Ryan Charon. “This is a beautiful spot and we’re just so happy to see the sign outside and this place being used for all this beautiful produce here… on behalf of the Bradford Board of Trade, congratulations!”
Mayor Keffer added “whatever we can do to have more foot traffic is good for the downtown. Years ago Bradford was known for its fresh produce and people would come from miles away to shop.. and here we now have fresh produce easily available in the downtown Bradford."
Gorzo and her family thanked everyone for coming to celebrate the Harvest Market’s grand opening, sharing that it is a wonderful opportunity and without her family, this would not be possible.
“We look forward to the next seven weeks,” said Gorzo. “We want to do some crafts and workshops, and hope to do a “meet the farmer” event once the harvest is done."
Deputy Mayor James Leduc praised real estate agent Robin Evans who was instrumental in securing the property for the pop-up harvest market.
“They got it for a great price and created an opportunity to do this,” noted Leduc.
The market is open at 11 a.m., five days a week and is closed Mondays and Wednesdays.
