Young entrepreneurs from Calderdale and beyond are showcasing their creativity and business ideas at a special event being held at Halifax Borough Market.
On Saturday 11 May from 10am until 4pm, Halifax Borough Market will host the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Young Traders Market, allowing young people aged 16-30 the chance to try out market trading and demonstrate their ideas to a wider audience.
Young traders will set up stalls in the market’s Albany Arcade alongside the usual stallholders, with a wide variety of different products on offer.
This is the first time that the event will be held in Halifax, as one of five locations across the Yorkshire and Humber region, with further events being held nationwide.
Young traders at the Halifax event will showcase their stall and products to a judging panel, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Calderdale, as well as a representative from the Council’s business support team.
The panel will select young traders to progress to a regional event in Skipton this summer, where they will then have the chance to represent Yorkshire and Humber at the national final and perhaps be named the National Markets Association’s Young Trader of the Year.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Silvia Dacre, said:
“Calderdale is known for its talented and enterprising nature and our markets are great places to start a new business, with competitive rates and business support advice from the council to help people on their way.
“We’re delighted to welcome the NMTF Young Traders Market to Halifax, with this prestigious event supporting our priority for thriving towns and places. This is an excellent opportunity for young people to experience a market environment and find out more about the support available to help nurture their talent. And with a place at regional, and potentially national, events on offer, it’s also a great way to launch a new business idea.
“The young traders will showcase their products alongside our usual market stalls, so there’ll be lots to see, do and purchase for anyone visiting the Borough Market on Saturday 11 May.
“As transformation works continue on the Borough Market, it’s also a good time to come and see the progression of works and how the improvements are enhancing the building and the visitor experience, ensuring that it continues to be a great place to visit, shop and socialise, for people of any age.”
One of the young traders taking part in the Halifax Young Traders Market event is Eunice Leung, with her handmade candles and craft business, Urban Botany. Eunice, said:
“I’m taking part in the Young Traders Markers because it is a great opportunity to meet other wonderful small businesses, and more importantly, some like-minded young traders, who I can always learn from and share the happiness of being able to make something we love.”
Another young trader getting involved, is Marnie from Hartley’s Crystals, who’s looking forward to trading in Halifax. She said:
“Last year, I started attending markets and have fallen in love with them. When I saw the opportunity to trade at the Young Traders Market, I was so excited. I love how this event is here to celebrate young entrepreneurs across the UK and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to trade at this prestigious market in my hometown of Halifax.”
To find out more about the Young Traders Market campaign, visit https://www.nmtf.co.uk/campaigns/young-traders-market(external link)
For more information about Calderdale Markets, visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/markets. More detail about the Future High Streets Fund transformation of Halifax Borough Market is available at https://calderdalenextchapter.co.uk/projects/halifax-borough-market-halifax-future-high-streets(external link)
The Young Traders Market supports the Council’s priority for thriving towns and places and demonstrates the key qualities of the Vision2024 for the borough. Calderdale reached its 50th anniversary on 1 April 2024. This is the ultimate year for the Vision 2024 for Calderdale. Find out more about it here: www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision
As part of 50th anniversary celebrations, Calderdale is hosting a Year of Culture. Events like the Young Traders Market form part of a diverse programme throughout 2024 and into 2025, catering to all ages and interests. From vibrant festivals and engaging workshops to captivating performances and insightful exhibitions, there will be something for everyone to experience and enjoy. Find out more at www.culturedale.co.uk(external link)
ENDS