Closure: One of the oldest markets in Mississauga has permanently closed

One of the oldest markets in Mississauga has permanently closed.

Herridge’s Farm Fresh Market, a third-generation family business, in the community for 51 years, closed for good on Dec. 24.

The market, located at 780 Southdown Rd. in Clarkson, was open each year from April to Dec. 24. But they posted on Instagram in November that they would be closing permanently on Dec. 24 this year.

“In case you haven’t heard, we will be closing on December 24 but not just for the winter,” they wrote. “The owners have paid their dues and are ready to retire. We’ve got one month left until we close for good! Thanks to our amazing community for over 50 years in business.”

The market was well known for its fresh local fruits and vegetables, which they grew and brought in from other area farmers. They sold honey, maple syrup, other groceries, plants and outdoor decor. The Herridge’s family has been farming the area for 101 years.

Unfortunately, two of the owners died this year.

Karen Warburton (nee Herridge) died on Aug 31, a post on Instagram read.

“She loved coming to the store every morning and talking with her customers and staff. She was thoughtful and caring,” the market post read. “She loved sharing her knowledge of food and flowers and trying new recipes. The market will not be the same without her. We will all miss her beautiful smile and infectious laugh.”

Peter Herridge died on Dec. 6. Peter and his siblings took over the business after their parents passed away, a post on Instagram read.

“Peter worked tirelessly at the market making sure the shelves were full of the finest quality produce. He loved chatting with the customers and always enjoyed a good laugh.”

In 2019, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman and Lakeshore MPP Rudy Cuzzetto recognized the contribution of the market to local food in Ontario.

Cuzzetto paid tribute to Herridge’s under the Local Food Champion program, which recognizes individuals, organizations and businesses who have demonstrated leadership in putting local food on Ontario family tables.

Closing for the final time, last Saturday, Dec. 24, owner Lloyd Herridge donated all the remaining goods to The Compass Food Bank & Outreach Centre, the food bank said in a post on Facebook.

“The Compass is blessed to be the recipient of Herridge’s final donation,” Compass Food Bank wrote. “Congratulations Lloyd on the next chapter in yours and your family’s lives. You will be truly missed by the Mississauga community.”

And owner Lloyd Herridge also wrote a goodbye:

“Thank you to our customers for supporting us. The family has been farming in Clarkson for 101 years and operating the market for 51. We will miss our customers dearly but are looking forward to a fresh start. All good things must come to an end!”

 

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A post shared by Herridge’s Fruit Market (@herridgesfruitmarket)