Historically, Eastern Market dominated the regional wholesale produce trade until the construction of the Detroit Produce Terminal Market in 1925. From the 1950s to the 2010s, both markets saw a decline as large grocery chains built their own distribution centers, reducing the need for public markets.
Consumer preferences have shifted toward local, healthier and unique food options over the last decade, with sales of iconic mass-marketed brands dwindling while smaller specialty food producers thrive. The Institute for the Competitiveness of Inner Cities has reported that food businesses provide the broadest range of skills among various sectors, particularly important for Detroit, where these businesses create numerous entry-level, living-wage jobs—essential for addressing chronic unemployment in the city’s neighborhoods.
Eastern Market has historically served as a springboard for entrepreneurship among all economic classes, enabling new immigrants to establish their footing as vendors. This tradition continues today as the market actively seeks to engage neighborhood entrepreneurs, whether they produce food items or other goods.
In its 2025 vision statement, Eastern Market outlines plans to ensure that it remains an inclusive space for all, regardless of age, income or race. The strategic plan emphasizes the urgent need for Eastern Market to maintain its authenticity as a working food district amid changing market trends and impending development pressures.
The conclusion drawn from this strategic planning is clear: Eastern Market must expand. An expanded market would serve as an economic growth catalyst, potentially generating thousands of new jobs.
“Eastern Market can become a more compelling destination beyond just Saturdays,” states the plan. “The expansion will facilitate the transformation of the current market district into a vibrant mixed-use area with more retail, housing and visitors. The largely vacant land north and east of the existing district offers opportunities for food processing and distribution.”
