Fresh community market launching this weekend in Palmetto

PALMETTO, Fla. — A new community market, aimed at revitalizing the downtown area, is set to launch in Palmetto this Sunday. Organizers believe it will encourage more visitors and promote local businesses.

The initiative is part of Mayor Dan West’s vision for enhancing the downtown business district. Among the participating vendors is Ella’s Sweet Spot, a bakery founded by Emily Zollner, who realized her lifelong passion for baking would shape her career.

Zollner, who previously worked as a pharmacy manager, was inspired by her family’s love for baking from a young age. “My grandma was my daycare, and I’ve always been surrounded by family members who loved to bake,” she recalled. This passion led her to establish Ella’s Sweet Spot in 2022.

At the market, Zollner plans to offer her popular pumpkin spice whoopie pies, a seasonal favorite. However, the journey to business ownership has not been without its challenges. “We’re living paycheck to paycheck, which has been tough,” she admitted. “For us, growing the business would significantly improve our quality of life.”

Zollner is optimistic about the North River Market’s potential to boost her sales. “This is the biggest market we’ve participated in, and it’s a vital opportunity for community engagement and new customer acquisition,” she said, noting her current reliance on social media for marketing.

“I really want to see our business grow, so we can become more financially stable,” she expressed. With the new market, she recognizes the power of community and hopes it will help fulfill her dreams of increased sales.

The North River Market will be held this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in “The Yard” outside the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto.