Markets in Greenville, Florence and Columbia comprise the Farmers' Market system in South Carolina. Total sales re nearly $300 million per year. Almost $250 million is accounted for by the Columbia market. The Columbia market is a large terminal market similar to the Atlanta market with wholesale and retail filisies. The Florence market is solely retail with signifigant pottent plants and flower sales in addition to food.

The Farmers Market system is operated at no cost to the state. State appropriations are obtained on occasion for new construction. The Columbia market was built in the mid-50's and the Florence market was built last, in 1983. State officials don't anticipate building any new markets, though appropriations for new construction will be sought when needed. The latest construction was a $2 million building at Florence for anticipated wholesale activities.

State appropriations are sporadically approved for individual city and county marketing facilities when strong enough local political support exists.