While both farmer's markets and grocery stores are in the business of selling food, the atmosphere and purpose are infinitely different.

But Loblaw Cos. Ltd. is hoping to meld the convenience of the grocery store with the charm of the market.

A "farmers market doesn't always fit with the realities of Canadians' hectic lifestyles," a news release states, according to the Canadian Press.

So Loblaw, Canada's largest food distributor and owner of such well-known chains as Loblaws, Superstore, Dominion and No Frills, says it plans to "replicate the farmers market experience where we can to a certain extent."

In the Canadian Press article, he's quoted as saying that could include in-store demonstrations where the shopper can ask questions and get information about who the grower is.

What do you think? Does this sound like a great way to get local produce in grocery stores? Or do you agree with critics, some who say it appears to be an attempt to capitalize on the growing popularity of the markets?