One form of conscious and healthy shopping is visiting the market, where one can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods offered by local producers. In Zalaegerszeg, within the framework of the Széchenyi 2020 program, it was possible to provide the infrastructural background for local producers and artisans to access the market with EU funds, thereby increasing consumer interest.
The goal of the city leadership was to implement a project that could unite the revitalisation of the local economy and the preservation of folk traditions, the promotion of job creation, environmental awareness, and the strengthening of the relationship between the city and the countryside.
In the heart of the city, at the Market Square, the investment affected a complex of two building sections as a functional extension of the existing market. On the ground floor, a cooperative store of approximately 80 m2 was established. Since local producers and artisans cannot be present at all times for sales, it was important for them to create a sales location where their products are available to customers every day. For the sale of various products, such as meat and butcher’s goods, 6 units of 5 m² each were established. The entire market area has been covered, allowing market days to be organised according to current needs. Additionally, an information point on the ground floor of the building provides useful information for both local producers and artisans, as well as visitors arriving here. Local products – such as handcrafted souvenirs, folk decorative items, and unique artisanal goods – are not only popular among tourists but also play an important role in preserving local culture.
The project not only supports local producers and artisans but also promotes environmentally conscious farming. The sale of local products reduces transportation and refrigeration costs, thereby mitigating environmental impact while ensuring a direct connection between producers and consumers. The establishment of short supply chains is particularly important, as it provides the opportunity for locally produced foods and handmade products to reach consumers without long transportation times and intermediaries. With the implementation of the project, a new, alternative solution has been created for those seeking a way out of the maze of pollution, unhealthy food, mass-produced goods, the flood of products that do not taste good.
The Local Producers and Craftsmen Market in Zalaegerszeg not only supports the current producers and craftsmen but also contributes to the long-term strengthening of the local economy. The number of jobs may increase, opportunities for self-employment may expand, and the region’s economy can develop sustainably. From a cultural and community perspective, it also plays a significant role by providing an opportunity to preserve local traditions, values, and knowledge. The development thus serves the interests of local producers, the protection of the environment, and the long-term well-being of the community, while strengthening Zalaegerszeg’s position among sustainable economic and cultural regions.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project TOP-6.1.3-15-ZL1-2016-00001 under the Territorial and Settlement Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder:Details
