How Eastern Market Feeds Detroit

When edibleWOW made  its debut on the publishing scene in 2008, one of the first topics we covered was the story of Eastern Market. At that time, the Detroit Eastern Market Corporation was only two years into their management takeover of the 117-year-old market. Their visionary leader Dan Carmody was just beginning to plant the seeds for future programs and improvements.

Through the tumultuous years that followed—which included the Great Recession and Detroit’s bankruptcy—Eastern Market persevered and even thrived. Capital improvements created beautiful and functional spaces. Innovative programs launched Detroit-based food entrepreneurs, and food access initiatives ensured that fruits and vegetables were made available to all citizens of Detroit.

Throughout the past eight years, edibleWOW has maintained strong ties to Eastern Market. As the original publication dedicated to the food scene in Southeast Michigan, we have interviewed, photographed and written about many of Eastern Market’s vendors, customers and staff. We, too, saw the value of Detroit’s local food scene long before it became fashionable. Where others saw abandonment and decay, we saw creativity and determination.

We believe that Eastern Market’s rich history and current impact on Detroit and beyond are so important that we are dedicating this entire issue to the topic. Now 125 years old, Eastern Market is more relevant than ever. The improvements we’ve seen since the Detroit Eastern Market Corporation took over are astonishing.

We are thankful for all that Eastern Market has done for Detroit so far. Imagine what another 125 years can do.

Please visit easternmarket.com for more details on the market, events and more.