Oschatz weekly market in distress: Where are the visitors?

Oschatz weekly market in distress: Where are the visitors?

The weekly market on the Oschatz Altmarkt is once again facing challenges. Although large numbers of people flock to the market every Tuesday and Friday, the number of vendors and visitors has fallen sharply in recent years. Loud LVZ There are only a few dedicated dealers left on site, keen to offer their customers quality and regionality. Petra Däberitz, who has been selling fresh fruit and vegetables from her own cultivation since 2005, is feeling the decline in market visitors all the more. She suspects that the Corona period had a big influence on this.

The signs of decline are clear: Frank Lux, on the market for 35 years, has reduced its presence to every two weeks. It's a similar story when it comes to prices: a kilo of potatoes currently costs around two euros on the market, while you pay between 1.29 and 1.69 euros in the supermarket. The bureau had been taking a look at fruit and vegetable prices, and the results weren't exactly encouraging. You pay around two euros per kilo for carrots at the weekly market, but between 99 cents and 1.49 euros in retail stores.

The market is changing

Nevertheless, there are bright spots: many customers appreciate the freshness and regional origin of the products. This aspect is taken into account by Market stories underlined, highlighting the advantages of the weekly market. Shopping here is not only less stressful and more personal, but also helps strengthen the local economy. The products are often harvested in the morning and are available fresh shortly afterwards. This allows retailers to consult about their customers' specific wishes, which can lead to less plastic waste because they can choose the packaging themselves.

Despite the associated challenges, the importance of local markets remains high. Experts emphasize the role of these markets in food security. A webinar hosted by SWISSAID was organized highlights the key role of local providers. They often face competition from large food giants who drive down prices through cheap imports. The questions of how to support smaller producers without putting them in the shadow of large companies are currently more important than ever.

The future of the Oschatz weekly market

In order to regain diversity and visitor numbers, new dealers and a breath of fresh air are needed. Hans-Jürgen Körner, who has been offering sausage products for two and a half years and also sells his own products, already misses the variety and especially a baker on the market. Whether and how the Oschatz weekly market can regain its former strength remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the regular customers have a good knack for fresh and regional products and show that the market can continue to exist in the future if you advocate for it.

In order to support the market, consumers are required to rely more on local retailers and value their products. After all, the weekly market thrives on community and freshness that is difficult to find elsewhere.