TRADERS FAQs
Timely arrival
Arrive around 9am if you are too early your canopy may not be ready for you, too late and you will miss sales or after 11.00 am we may need to take down the canopy.
Be prepared
Make a checklist of all the essentials you will need to run your stall. Think about stocking up tables, carrier bags, notepads and pen etc. Ensure that you have these ready for when you start trading.
Where to go for help
There will usually be one manager and two market crew on site every Saturday, please direct your queries and requests to the manager, it’s usually Eshan and occasionally Carole. The market crew are busy setting up. The manager will be onsite or in the office until 3.30. If you cannot find a member of the market team please call the office on 02076201201 or the Duty phone 07572154074.
Overestimate your float
Don’t underestimate how much money you will need in your float. Customers often try to pay with larger notes and you will need lots of coins to be able to give back the correct change. You don’t want to be running around throughout the day to find more change and lose sales.
Set up to make sales and pricing your goods
This may sound obvious, but when you’re setting up your stall, ensure it looks presentable both up close and from far away. You want to make sure that customers will be attracted to it from further away and that the stall still looks great up close after you have enticed them over. Customers will be coming to their local markets for a bargain. Do your research and make sure you price your goods competitively. While you don’t want to price too high, nor do you want to price too low.
Ensure all your goods are clearly labelled with the correct prices as well to make it easier for customers to understand your pricing. (People don't like unmarked items)
Be comfortable
Another obvious one, but often overlooked: before you start trading, double check that you have the right supplies to remain comfortable throughout your trading hours. Wear suitable clothing and shoes for the conditions and weather, always pack extra layers and waterproofs and, depending on the season, take some sun cream. Don’t forget to pack snacks and drinks to keep hydrated and content too.
Be friendly
It’s a given that you should be friendly, but for those who are new to the trading business or are just plain shy, don’t be nervous. Chat to people, smile and be confident in your products. If you are approachable and friendly you will make more sales.
Network with other traders
Don’t forget to talk with the other traders. Make some time during the day to speak to those around you. Good times to try are during set-up and closing. Networking gives all the traders a chance to learn from one another, share knowledge and ideas, offer trader discounts and discuss future opportunities.
The market stall business is extremely friendly and a great one to be a part of. Not only are there great opportunities for money to be made, but it’s also a wonderful way of being a part of your local community and getting to know locals on a daily basis.
Housekeeping
We provide you with a pop-up stall and on most occasions we will erect this for you there may be some instances where you need to erect this yourself. If you need assistance with sides backs and tables please ask the market assistants for help, please be patient as they need to get the canopies up first and foremost for everyone.
Toilets for trader use are available at Vaulty Towers and V3.
If you run out of carrier bags Mr Patel at Supreme stores sells them.
All traders are expected to remove their own rubbish.
Wind guidance
The wind at Lower Marsh can be quite challenging, we have wind guidance procedures that all staff are aware of and you will find that extra weights and sand bags are put out as required. If you have particularly fragile items please let the market manager know when you arrive and additional ballast will be allocated. We do however recommend that you leave the bottom of the sides and backs open to allow the wind to filter through.
Check your cover
When you begin Flea trading, you will be covered on our Public Liability but you will need your own Public Liability in time. After 4 trading days you will need your own the national federation of market traders
is a good place to find more information. If you have valuable products you may need to consider insure to cover loss or damage to your goods.
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
You must be over 18 and bring with you photo ID - passport or driving licence
What should I bring with me?
Passport or Driving Licence
Proof of Address
Copy of public liability insurance (if you’re a professional trader)
What can't I sell?
Food and Drink
Stolen Goods
Weapons
Kitchen knives
Counterfeit goods
Pornographic material
What if I’m raising money for a charity?
We may be able to offer discounted tickets if you’re fundraising, contact us directly to discuss options.
Is my registration/ticket transferrable?
Sorry we cannot transfer your ticket.