Harris Farm Markets is one of those true family businesses – started in 1971 with a roadside market in Villawood. Three of owners David and Catherine’s five children work for Harris Farm, each having gone off for a while establishing careers elsewhere before coming back to the fold.

The produce is good, which has a lot to do with Harris Farm's independence; its buyers decide every day what’s worth stocking, without being dictated to by store managers. It is also to do with the Harris’ relationships (some going back 20-odd years) with various suppliers, like the Mudgee Honey man who buries honey in earthenware pots to age it and drives down once a week to drop off his produce.

Harris Farm’s character belies its size, with over 1000 employees. It is an active member of Job Support, a project that employs young adults with intellectual disabilities. It also works with Early Release, which helps get young offenders back on their feet.