Tyrone Farmers’ Market has become the first local market in Northern Ireland to be recognised for its excellence in customer care. Market stallholders have successfully completed a “Welcome to Excellence” customer care training programme in conjunction with the East Tyrone College of Further and Higher Education.

The Welcome to Excellence award was presented to producers at the market who successfully participated in the internationally recognised “Welcome Host” training.  The training programme which focuses on improving customer-care and communication skills willensure that shoppers at the market receive the highest standard of service.

Speaking as she presented the Farmers’ Market with a plaque marking its achievement, Mary Ferris, Head of School at East Tyrone College, said “it is a wonderful achievement for producers at the market, as it highlights their proficiency in the hospitality and service industry”.  Mary added “It will ensure customers visiting the market receive the highest quality of service”.

Robert McKenna, Acting Chief Executive of the Tourism Training Trust recognises that visiting the local farmers’ market is as much part of the tourist experience as hotels and visitor attractions. “Everyone who meets a visitor can make a lasting impact on how they enjoy themselves while they are here, and these memories are taken back home. Seeing the Welcome to Excellence logo assures both visitors and local customers that every effort will be made to cater for their needs.”   Robert added that it was an outstanding accomplishment for the market.

Chairman of the Tyrone Farmers’ Market, Robert Robinson was delighted with the market’s achievement.  Robert said “although customer-care was always at the forefront of providing a service at the market, it was an excellent opportunity for producers to complete the course and rubber-stamp their skills”.  Robert added “customers can now expect top quality service with a smile!”