THE Warwick Farmers’ Market has provided fresh fruit and vegetables to the community for the past 16 years but owner John Thornton said he had never experienced a year like 2010.

Mr Thornton said his business had experienced its toughest year, which he blamed squarely on the tightening of the economy.

“This year has been more about the economic downturn than anything else that’s affected the business,” Mr Thornton said.

He said a low point in 2010 came with the introduction of several new businesses in the area.

“The opening of Aldi and the IGA has had a big impact on small businesses throughout town,” he said

“It hasn’t been all that bad, though. During the past couple of months the business community has started to see more confidence.”

Mr Thornton believes a good summer should ensure everything turns to a more positive note.

“I can feel things are going to be a lot better in the not-too-distant future,” he said.