Starting out at a market can be overwhelming, especially when you're new to the scene. A flood of questions is bound to pop up: Where do I park? What do I do once I’m there? How do I even run a stall? Do I need cash? And those are just the basics!
While I’m not a market expert, I’ve spent the last 2.5 years navigating them and have learned a lot along the way. In this blog, I’ll share some of the insights I've picked up, along with a few essential dos and don’ts and hopefully give you some tips to help you feel more confident if you're planning to set up your own stall.
1. How do i know what market is best for me?
As a new trader this can be a hard question to answer yourself. Start by thinking what do you want from a market?
Not all businesses go to markets to get sales, Some are to get known by the general public because they offer a service. Some businesses want to get sales and some are to get future bookings.
By understanding what you would like to achieve from a market will help you decide which is best suited for you. A lot of this comes with experience also.
For me, i go to the markets for a few reasons, to sell my products, to meet my customers and here what they have to say about my products and also to get my business to reach new people not only customers but also other traders. Remember - you never know who you're going to speak to.
2. How do i find the market I'm looking for?
Social media is excellent for this purpose. Check out local markets on Instagram, see which businesses they follow, and explore them. You'll also hear about other markets from traders!
3. How do i book a market and why do they want to know my information?
Certain markets might require you to complete a form on their website (some might have a waitlist), while others may ask you to email them. If you are emailing, simply inform them that you wish to book a spot and specify the products you sell. Markets request your information for two reasons: to keep records of traders for insurance purposes and, ideally (I will elaborate on this later), to ensure there aren't too many duplicate stalls.
4. As a new trader will i need insurance for a market?
To operate a market stall, you must have liability insurance. This typically costs around £50. The coverage must be at least £5 million. Liability insurance is crucial for market stallholders as it safeguards against financial losses from accidents or injuries at your stall, or if your products cause harm. It also covers legal expenses and is often necessary to obtain a stall at many markets.
5. Do i have to pay for my stall? And how much is it?
It would be wonderful to say you don't have to pay for your stall, but there is indeed a stall fee, which varies depending on the market you choose.
Some organizers, like charities or schools, might charge between £10 and £30. The average stall price is around £50 for the day, with varying hours. Certain venues, such as National Trust sites or specific Christmas stalls, may charge significantly more, sometimes £100 or higher. This can be a concern when attending a market, as you need to recoup the money spent on the stall fee. But don't let this put you off attending market stalls. I've had my fair share of markets where i haven't made my money back and i learn from them. You'll find the right place for you, it just might take a few bad markets to find the best one.
6. Do i need a gazebo or table?
Certain markets include a table or gazebo with the booking, as seen with Makers Markets. Others require you to bring your own. Some vendors only participate in markets that supply a table, while others are willing to purchase one. The decision is yours. I participate in two different markets at one, I bring my own gazebo and table, while the other provides them.
7. How do i decide on a display?
Google and social media are excellent resources for finding pictures of other stalls and drawing inspiration. For instance, I might search for "stall display for soap" or "stall display for candles." It's important for your stall to look its best; using a tablecloth can help conceal your stock underneath and add some colour to your display. You want your stall to be eye-catching and welcoming to customers. Don't worry if you don't want to spend a lot of money, you can build your stall as you attend more markets.
8. How do i take payments do i need cash or card machine?
Initially, I brought a cash float to my first market, but after participating in several markets, I realized the necessity of having a card machine. I use the SumUp machine, which costs £30 and connects to your phone. Although it takes a small percentage per transaction, it is minimal. I no longer carry cash since most people pay with card. Some markets may have a preference for cash, but you'll discover that as you attend various locations.
Here are some things to remember when attending a market stall. These are my own personal views that i have learnt from experience. Some tips might not help but there could be 1 that does.
If you don't make your money back of your stall and have a low day for sales, ask yourself what the reason is? I'm sure it will be something that's out of your control.
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The weather - this plays a huge part! If its hot people are out at the beach, going exploring, do they want to attend markets? Probably not. If its freezing cold, who will want to come and walk around a market?
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The time of year, which month and date, will make a huge impact. Christmas will always be a great time of year for most businesses, but come January/February, sales will be a lot quieter. Bank holidays - i personally haven't had great experience on a bank holiday and wouldn't do a market because from my experience people like to have days out having lunch at the pub or walks and don't attend markets.
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Location - whether that's the location of your actual market or the location of your stall. The design of some markets can mean you aren't in a prime spot. For example, in one particular market, I was the last person on the furthest end from the entrance - nobody came to my stall. But when I attended again and was put in a different spot, I had a much better day. The location of the actual might not be the best of spots, I've done markets in main streets, pub car parks, events and by doing this worked out what location is best for me.
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Traders of similar products - This is quite a big topic and the way you look at it will play a big part. Some markets do have duplicate stalls - and lots of them! If you are lucky enough to be on a market with only your product you've hit the jackpot! One thing you have to remember is, even though there are lots of people that have businesses/side hustles and they may have products SIMILAR to yours - not the same, similar they can have an impact on your sales but they are not your competition!
For example - I've been at many markets with other candle makers and i never see them as competition. No one is my competition because my products are made by me and no one makes them the way i do, no one makes them with the scents that i do and no one has the ideas that i do. Remember this not only for markets but on social media too.
There are both good and bad markets, which can be attributed to two main reasons. Some locations simply aren't ideal, and some market owners may not be effective—they can be disorganized or more focused on filling spaces than on supporting the traders. However, don't let this discourage you. Take it with a grain of salt. Remember, you're there for your business, so keep that in mind.
Typically, smaller markets are the ones that are well-organized and attentive to their traders. If you're fortunate enough to find one, I would recommend continuing to attend. Remember, a market that works well for one person might not be suitable for another, depending on what they sell. Food stalls tend to do well everywhere, so don't compare yourself to them. You'll often see food stalls announcing that they sold out, and good for them! I know I'll never sell out at a market due to the amount of stock I bring. Even on my best days, I haven't completely run out of products.
Summary
I hope this blog has helped you gain a better understanding of markets. This is based on my experience, and while some aspects might seem negative, the overall experience is truly rewarding! You'll engage with the local community and become more established. Personally, I enjoy attending markets and meeting new people, whether they're customers or fellow traders. It helps you grow personally and enhances your business mindset.
Customers will provide honest feedback on your products, giving you insight into who you're selling to by interacting with them directly.
Traders might offer valuable tips, or you might find something appealing in their display and want to learn more. They could also become customers or even new friends.
Of course if there is anything you would like to discuss more or questions i haven't answered please reach out to me by email on social media and i'll happily help :)
