“Choose quality over quantity and invest in your community,” that’s the message from a Llangadfan-based artisan cake maker calling on shoppers to support their local independent producers.

Kate Pinder, from Cegin Kate, and fellow Welsh artisan producers are calling on shoppers to support their local markets and retailers.

Kate said: “It does take some courage changing shopping habits, especially if you are used to bulk buying in supermarkets, however if you shop at local farm markets you will always find value in the cost, choose quality over quantity, invest in the community and furthermore putting your well-earned money into good use”.

Since taking part at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show Winter Fair in November, the producers who took part for the first time at the AGORA Farmers Market have come together in support of encouraging shoppers to visit farm markets and local suppliers.

Choosing the high street instead of the supermarket has many benefits with research indicating that shopping locally has a positive impact on the local economy, keeping communities unique as well as having environmental benefits by reducing food miles and encouraging seasonality.

Additionally, the social factor of shopping locally improves well being, strengthens community relationships and mental health ensuring consumers buy what they need, not buying the hype.

AGORA project manager, Rolant Tomos said: “Local markets make a great change to the crowd-filled big stores and out of town retail parks. Shopping at a market is much less stressful, and a hugely enjoyable experience.

“You can’t beat the tastes, sights and smells of the food and drink on sale, and you know what you’re going to get is a really special quality artisan product.

“Importantly though, shoppers get the opportunity to interact with the producers, to ask questions and learn about the food and drink produced in their area.”

He added: “When you buy locally, the money stays locally. It helps the farmer maintain their farms, the stall holder develop their business and the producers to keep on producing their fantastic products. Try to buy one thing local and you will make a difference.”