Florida farmers market faces lawsuits over unpaid bills to produce suppliers
• Doug Specialties farmers market in Pompano Beach failed to pay $39,760 to an Alabama tomato supplier and $16,100 to a Pennsylvania produce supplier after accepting deliveries over the summer.
• The suppliers are suing the market and its CEO Douglas Habe for the unpaid costs plus interest, attorneys fees, and other costs.
• The lawsuits accuse the market of violating federal regulations that require produce dealers to hold goods and revenue in trust until suppliers are paid in full.
• Doug Specialties opened less than a year ago advertising itself as a 99 cent farmer's market, though some items cost more.
• The market has drawn enthusiastic fans praising its low prices and wide selection as well as criticism that many items cost more than its advertised 99 cent price.