Community Friendly Hairdresser at Cambridge Market

Local resident and hairdresser Jo Harding started trading at Cambridge Market back in May this year, and with it, brought a new and unique idea with her. The business, ‘Echo Cuts’, sees Jo save all the trimmings of hair she cuts, which is then bagged up and given to people to use, free of charge, as compost. Although the idea is new to the market scene, the actual concept has been around a long time, Jo’s grandparents using it for years when planting his slow growing plants. The uniqueness of an outside hairdressers has not only been a hit with the locals who use the market, but has also caught the attention of a lot of the tourists who visit the city. Having a stall at the market enables Jo to keep her prices down and offer visitors to the market a more convenient and affordable hair cut. Jo told MTN, “A lot of people can find high street salons intimidating, not to mention expensive. When I first got into hairdressing getting your haircut was always seen as a necessity, however nowadays it’s seen more as a luxury. With being able to offer lower prices I hope I can turn this back around to how it use to be so that people can afford it more often, and if your hair is good you feel good. Also my customers see that their cut offs are being put to good use by helping the environment. Having worked at salons previously I’ve seen just how much wastage there can be, but it doesn’t have to be like that.” A lot of people use the compost on their allotments and gardens, then call Jo when they want some more and then pick it up or she can deliver it by bicycle. She if often seen biking to and from appointments and the market, which is another of many ways that Jo helps the environment and is currently having a new bike trailer made with advertising space on it available for small businesses. She is also in the process of looking for a spinner, which means she can knit it together and give people the choice of having it either knitted or as it comes. Alongside keeping her business green and helping the environment Jo also does a fantastic job in supporting and raising the profile of local charities. Every haircut that Jo makes sees £1.00 go to a local charity and she dedicates roughly three months worth of money to an individual charity. Between May to August she helped the charity Childrens A + E at Addenbrookes (started by Junior Sister Byrne) and her donation helped buy new books for the patients. She is currently supporting the Arthur Rank Adult Hospice (September to December) and is looking at which local charity she will be supporting in January. All volunteers who work at the charities also get Community Friendly Hairdresser at Cambridge Market offered a free haircut. In summing up Jo told MTN, “The reason I do it is to try and raise the profile of our local charities, as well as donating to them. It is important that we give back to our local communities. People are quick to moan about the economy, yet they still order the majority of things online. They would genuinely be surprised if they came down and supported the local market at just how great it is, thus giving something back locally. The atmosphere at the market is fantastic, especially between us traders. Considering we are all independent businesses the teamwork is second to none, always helping each other out. Its almost like we are one big family, I love it there.” What does the future hold for Jo and Echo Cuts, Well, “One day I really hope I can expand the business and idea so it can be used at markets across the UK. Too help benefit local charities up and down the UK and of course the environment nationwide would be fantastic.”
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MARKET MATTERS - COLD FEET

How are the January sales for you? Lots of Shoppers seem to be voting with their feet and deserting the High Street in favour of online sales. ‘Why suffer cold and wet feet traipsing in search of bargains when you can stay at home and do it online?’ was the thinking behind another Government-supported attempt to revive our emptying High Streets. First there was the DCLGsponsored ‘Portas review’, then the ‘Town Team’ competition and the private ‘Grimsey Review’ and now it’s the turn of the ‘Distressed Town Centre Property Taskforce’ sponsored by the HM Treasury. You can download it from http://policy.bcsc.org.uk/beyondretail/index.asp It covers the usual big issues – lack of funding, online sales, fragmented land ownership and parking policy etc and outlines interesting initiatives such as the ‘retail business incubators’ in Cold Feet Wolverhampton and Tamworth. 

Also how Rotherham provides revenue and capital support for fledgling businesses. Some Councils like Birkenhead and Rochdale are promoting their High Street Markets as ‘retail differentiators’ and there’s a good argument to be had about why this hasn’t happened before. But like the reviews before it this one offers little else but local policy support for SME’s (‘Small and Medium-sized Enterprises’). There’s a nice picture of Stockport Market Hall and some welcome discussion of ‘provision of mentoring and...social media for independent retailers and small businesses’, but I can’t help thinking the review is still missing the blindingly obvious. SME’s are less deterred by the cost of rent and rates than the administrative burden of paperwork they encounter as they expand. If HM Treasury is serious about encouraging SME’s as ‘the engine room of the economy’ then it needs to take a long-term approach to relaxing Vat rules, tax thresholds, NI and employment legislation which apply to small businesses. Those costs are outside the control of any independent retailer and a very real disincentive to growth. You can always negotiate your rent downwards with a landlord, but just you wait and see what happens when you miss your Vat return. Didn’t David Osborne promise a ‘bonfire of paperwork’ in one of his budget speeches? That’s the way to cure SME’s cold feet. Someone else has definitely got cold feet, MP’s. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority created to set MP’s pay and expenses in the aftermath of the expenses scandal proposes to increase MP’s salaries by 11% to £74,000 p.a.in 2015, despite objections by all parliamentary leaders. The best bit is that MP’s have no way of stopping the increase unless they change the law they introduced a couple of years ago. Labour has said ‘any rise in MPs' pay must be considered in the light of...the cost-of-living crisis facing people across the country’ and the Prime Minister has threatened to abolish IPSA if it force-feeds MP’s with another eight thousand per annum. He didn’t mention anything about HS2 though. Great stuff. I wonder how many will vote in the abolition debate. And finally, some not-so-cold cold feet: German Scientists have discovered how Penguins manage to keep their feet (and the baby Penguins which sit upon them) nice and cosy during a blizzard. A similar problem is shared by many Traders on Open Markets. Apparently the Penguins bunch together and shuffle around in a sort of Mexican wave whilst squawking about the weather and how few fish there are to eat, or whatever. This keeps the ones in the middle toasty warm whilst they struggle not to get shuffled out to the edge. With cold Teutonic logic the scientists conclude the ‘regulars’ who are skilled at turning up first always secure the best pitches in the middle whilst the ‘casuals’ who can’t be arsed are left with the worst pitches at the edge. This sounds very familiar so I can’t work out why scientists needed to go to Antarctica to confirm it. So leave your moonboots at home and train a pair of Penguins to sit on your feet. Or if the Toby objects, then seize the business opportunity and start manufacturing Penguinlookalike boots. Keep shuffling. Spring is not that far away. 

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Christmas market was a cracker!

FOLLOWING the fantastic success of Ashton Christmas Market, plans are afoot to hold an even bigger and better event next year.

Thousands of people visited the spectacular two-week event, which was a first for Tameside. Shoppers enjoyed daily live entertainment on the stage and free children’s rides as well as a bar and 30 traditional cabin stalls offering a wide variety of gifts, food and festive fare.
Now Tameside Council is seeking feedback from visitors and traders to help build on this success for next year.
Executive Deputy Leader Cllr John Taylor, who is responsible for markets, said: “We’ve received lots of wonderful feedback from visitors who have enjoyed the market and the lovely, festive atmosphere as well as from businesses who have seen an increase in trade. I would like to thank everyone for showing their support and shopping local.
“We would really like to hear from more people about what they think worked well and any suggestions to help us build on this success for the future.  We want this to be an annual event for Tameside and will be reviewing all the feedback before making plans for next time.”
Ashton Market Hall saw an increase in trade during the Christmas Market, with over 3,000 more visitors through the doors during the first week than the same period last year. Other town centre businesses have also responded positively to the event.
Sharon Radcliffe of Maisies Daisies said: “I think the Christmas markets have been a wonderful idea – really well organised and enjoyed by all. We’ve had many new customers into the indoor market also.”
Janet Louth of Baileys said: “Business has been better this Christmas – the Metrolink has definitely helped but the Christmas Market has had a big part to play.”
Della Yates of B & M Bargains said: “We’ve had a great increase in footfall from 5pm compared to last year. A great event!.”

People can give their views on Ashton Christmas Market via this link https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ashtonxmasmarket

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NEW MALDEN FARMERS’ MARKET

 

New Malden Farmers’ Market will be having it’s Evening Christmas Market

On Saturday 21^st December 13 from 5.30pm – 9.30pm

The Market is situated at the Fountain Pub car park (by the Fountain round about in New Malden, Surrey)
 

New Malden Farmers’ Market will be holding a charity presentation at 7pm. A cheque for £500 will be presented from the Market to Lin and Iain Bowman of The Fountain Pub, New Malden (on behalf of the NSPCC).

All of our usual fantastic artisan stalls will be present plus extra Christmas guest stalls

for all of those last minute Christmas gifts!

Come and enjoy a glass of hot mulled wine, mince pies, roast chestnuts and delicious hot sausages whilst we entertain you from 6.30pm with ‘Carols around the Tree’ by Christ Church Community Choir.

And for the little ones, Santa will be visiting to take everyone’s Christmas lists accompanied by the infamous ‘Amy’ the sheep!

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Big Wheel arrives at Bolton

A huge travelling fairground wheel will be spinning into Bolton town centre this Christmas. Bolton Council will be bringing a 100 foot Ferris wheel to Victoria Square as part of a bumper festive package to attract thousands of shoppers over the festive period. The giant wheel will be in town from Thursday, December 12th and it is thought that it will be the only one located in Greater Manchester during winter. The ride, which can seat 144 people, will offer a bird’s eye view of the rolling Pennine countryside when people reach the top of the wheel and it will be lit up brightly in the evening. Other highlights of the town centre festive programme include the return of the popular 200 square metre ice rink and a free Santa’s grotto on Victoria Square from November 30th. A speciality market on Newport Street from December 12th to 15th, a chance to meet real reindeer, and street entertainment will also be laid on to pull in the crowds. Leader of Bolton Council, Councillor Cliff Morris, said he is confident that the ride and other attractions will be a hit. “The giant wheel is a fantastic addition to the town centre and something that is sure to appeal to people of all ages. “We know how popular these attractions are from places like Manchester and Liverpool. This particular wheel is one of the biggest of its kind which travels around the country and it has visited locations including Leeds and the Etihad stadium in Manchester. “Together with everything else we’ve got happening, it really will be a winter wonderland experience not to be missed,” he added. Crompton Place Manager, Malcolm Angus, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the council to deliver a healthy dose of festive fun and Christmas cheer for the town. “Crompton Place is at the heart of the community and we are always keen to lend our support to events like this which encourage people to come and make the most of all the great shopping which Bolton has to offer. “While parents are doing their Christmas shopping with us, there will also be the opportunity to bag one of 300 family tickets for a free ride on the giant wheel and skating for an hour on the ice rink when shoppers spend £30 or more in one go at the participating Crompton Place retailers.” From December 12th, the wheel will open: Thursday to Saturday from 11am to 7.30pm; Sundays 11am to 5.30pm; Monday to Wednesday from 11am to 5.30pm. The wheel will be open on Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 11am to 4pm. It will be closed on Christmas Day. The ride costs: £3.50 for adults; £2.00 for under- 16s, and £2.50 for senior citizens and students. Family tickets at £7 cover two adults and two children or one adult and three children. Joint tickets for the giant wheel and ice rink can also be purchased. Discounts apply and prices vary. Tickets can be bought online from www.visitbolton.com from Monday, October 28th and in person from box offices on Victoria Square when the attractions open. Bolton Market is also looking for quality festive crafts, gifts and decorations traders for a four day specility market taking place from Thursday, December 12th to Sunday, December 15th. Opening times vary and deadline for traders to apply is October 30th. Contact bolton. markets@bolton.gov.uk for more information.
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Here’s to getting paid wherever you do business

Every business wants to win every sale. Yet countless traders are in effect holding up a huge ‘closed’ sign by not taking credit and debit card payments. It’s understandable. Taking card payments has been expensive and inflexible for years. If your sales vary, you don’t want to commit to a long term contract and hefty fees. Yet if you don’t take cards, you risk your customers going to a rival that does. PayPal Here is an affordable way to take cards. The new PayPal Here app and card reader lets you accept credit card, debit card and PayPal payments wherever you do business. There are no monthly fees, just a oneoff charge of £99 for the card reader and then a small fee when you take a card or PayPal payment. You connect the card reader to your iPhone, iPad or Android phone via Bluetooth to accept payments, making PayPal Here ideal for traders who visit customers or trade at markets and exhibitions. The PayPal Here card reader includes the highest standards of Chip and PIN technology. And it carries PayPal’s name, providing reassurance to your customers, who are likely to be very familiar with PayPal. To find out more, please visitwww.paypal.co.uk/here
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The new NABMA team elected in Torquay

Councillor Kevan Wainwright of Halton Borough Council was unveiled as the new Nabma President at the Annual General Meeting. At the AGM the new president spoke of his delight at becoming President and highlighted the huge success of the past year, particularly Love Your Local Market and Market of the Year.

The President is very keen to visit Nabma markets during the year and if you have a special event then please contact the Nabma office. Nabma’s 2013 Annual Conference was held in Torquay once again, five years after previously visiting South Devon’s beautiful bay. All who attended were treated to the amazing views the Puma Imperial Hotel had to offer and the fantastic services of their staff. The two day conference played host to a range of quality speakers, all sharing their ideas, experiences and information with regards to their markets or services. As well as the days being packed with events, the evenings were just as eventful, with a Caribbean themed evening and Buffet on the first night and the Nabma Awards Dinner on the second. The Awards Dinner sees Nabma make a series of awards in recognition of achievement in the market sector in 2013. Blachere Illumination sponsor the Market Officer, Market Team and Market Innovation of the Year Awards and also, for the first team, Market Trade News sponsored the Nabma/ MTN Award 2013 in recognition of Outstanding Service to the Market Industry. The first award of the evening went to Andy Ward, Head of Markets at Sheffield, who was awarded the Market Manager of the Year title. Andy was one of many nominations for this top accolade and it recognises his reputation in the sector, his leadership of the new Sheffield Market development and his long standing help and support to the training and professional development of the industry.

Other awards were: 
Nabma/Blachere Award for the Markets Team of the Year went to - London Borough of Bromley.

Nabma/Blachere Award for the Market Innovation of the Year went to - The MyBarnsley AP

The Nabma/Market Trade News Award for an outstanding contribution to the markets industry went to – Ann Coffey MP, Chairman of the All Party Parliament Group. Unfortunately Ann could not make it to the awards ceremony, however the award will be presented to her at a later date.

Also at the Awards Dinner, Nabma and all in attendants, celebrated a number of student successes with presentations of their Diploma in Markets Management. The Awards and Diploma receive sponsorship from Market place Europe, to which Nabma are thankful to Allan Hartwell and Ian Hill for their investment in providing quality training to the industry. 

The successful candidates were: Lisa York of the London Borough of Bromley Tracey Harnett of Kirklees MBC Sarah Sweeting of Kirklees MBC Joanne Reagan of Calderdale MBC Annette Lebreton of Medway District Council James Peart of Leeds City Council Marie Shaw of Burnley District Council Stephen Wooley of Peterborough City Council The Nabma Conference also saw the ‘End of an Era’ with Training Officer Dennis Wardle retiring from his position. True testament was paid to Dennis when he received a standing ovation from all in attendance upon his acceptance of a gift on behalf of the Association to recognise his retirement. Dennis enjoyed a long standing career as Head of Markets at Derby Council, was a staunch member and Officer with the Institute of Market Officers and over the last few years fulfilled the Training Officer role with Nabma, leading on the launch and delivery of the Diploma in Markets Management. The Nabma Annual Conference was a huge success and all the hard work put in to running the event really paid off, with everyone attending having a brilliant time and creating a fantastic atmosphere for all.

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Altrincham Christmas Programme showcases Town’s unique offer

With a little over six weeks until Christmas, Altrincham’s Christmas Programme is swinging into action with the launch of the Altrincham Forward Christmas website – www.altyxmas.co.uk

Altrincham at Christmas is even more exciting this year with the launch a fantastic new Great British Christmas Market on Sunday’s and the popular Thursday Twilight markets are back!

Altrincham Town Centre Manager, Paul Armstrong said: “There’s a jam packed programme of events and shopping experiences taking place in Altrincham this year meaning local people don’t have to go far to find those unique gifts or to simply absorb some festive cheer.  With late night shopping on Thursday’s throughout December in the Stamford Quarter until 8pm and the market a hive of festive entertainment and treats from 14^th November, there’s no other place to visit – Altrincham truly has a unique offer.”

Paul paid a visit this week, along with the Mayor of Trafford Cllr Dylan Butt, to the Village Toy Company on Stamford New Road - Altrincham’s magical independent toy shop, which has been trading in Altrincham for nearly a year.  

Owner of the Village Toy Company and Altrincham resident, Lisa McCarthy, said: “This will be our first full Christmas period in business and will be by far the busiest time of year for us. We have worked hard to establish ourselves as a destination toy shop over the past year and, as an independent retailer, give customers something a little bit different. On Saturday 30 November we will be celebrating our first birthday by offering a 10% discount to shoppers.”

The website is a ‘one-stop-shop’ of information and listings showcasing what Altrincham has to offer this Christmas – with new events and offers being added all the time. Visit www.altyxmas.co.uk or follow @altrinchamFWD on Twitter.

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Pudsey goes to Market

Shoppers on Blackburn Market had fun posing for photos with Pudsey Bear in aid of BBC Children in Need.  The famous furry fundraising bear paraded round the stalls collecting loose change, whilst families were offered face painting and teddy bear themed crafts. The event raised £130 towards this year's appeal.

The event was part of an exciting new programme of free activities aimed at families in the lead up to Christmas which will include theatre sideshows, choir performances, a community art wall as well as make and take craft sessions.  The next events will celebrate Lancashire Day with a Lancashire folk group and a community mural in the style of the iconic Lancashire artist, L S Lowry.

Councillor Maureen Bateson, Executive Member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council says she wants the market to become a hub for the community where people enjoy more than just shopping.  

‘We want to create a vibrant space which will attract a younger profile customer who will be enticed by the quality service and interaction with the traders, value for money prices and the great atmosphere.  Our events will be free, create a buzz in the market and give added value to the shopping experience.’

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A cut above the rest, Godiva Barbers

If you have passed the little kiosk in Coventry’s Precinct lately (you know the one, located between Waterstones and Marks and Spencer), you will have noticed it’s taken on a new bright look. That’s because it’s home for a brand new venture by 22-year-old Connor Evans. 
This is Connors second venture in the city, recently turning around the fortunes of the market barbers and handing the now successful traditional barbers on to his younger brother Ciaran .
The brothers come from a family of Coventry hairdressers , their late father Mark Evans was a well-known personality and had several local award winning hair salons along with his wife Moira. Moira ‘s renaissance hair salon in Broadgate continues to be a top Coventry hairdressers and the hub of the family businesses.
Connor looks at it like this. 
“I started off training in salons in Coventry even working alongside my mum in renaissance and then I got the opportunity to take over the Market Barbers on the Market’s start-up scheme,
The Market was a great place to build up my customers and experience running my own place. Then when I got the opportunity to come up in to the city centre,  I thought it would be a good to expand the businesses with something a little different. 

So how is business?
“I have been open now for about 3 weeks  and I can’t believe the reaction ,  Godiva barbers is going really well. We want to develop this in to a long standing barber’s shop . It’s a great location to get your hair cut right in the city centre and we wanted to bring something a little quirky  into Coventry, something a little different and up to date which will attract people to the city centre as well”.

So what has the feedback been like, so far?
“We have had great feedback, people coming up chatting and taking pictures, I have my regular clients from down in the Market and Ciaran down there is building up his new barbers with new customers, We are  opening 7 days a week, so come along and try it out, we cater to all styles of hair, we can even book you in for a traditional cut throat shave”. 

Crowds turn out for the launch of Morpeth’s new Market

Hundreds of people turned out to see the brand new market being launched in Morpeth at the weekend along with the town’s first ever Food and Drink Festival.

Star of the BBC’s Apprentice, Adam Corbally, joined traders and civic dignitaries at the event which was held in Morpeth town centre on Saturday October 5th.

After an official civic launch of the new market cooking demonstrations, competitions and games were held throughout the day with both the Town Hall Food and Drink Festival and the new stalls on the market place pulling in the crowds throughout the day.

Declaring the new market open, the Mayor of Morpeth Cllr Joan Tebbutt read from the original market charter which was granted to Roger de Merley in 1199 for the cost of thirteen pounds, six shillings and eight pence – allowing the town to hold a weekly market and an annual fair.

Cllr Tebbutt added: “There has been a market held on this spot for all those years and it’s fantastic to see the new market here today.

“We’ve had a number of changes over the years in the town, the Sanderson Arcade development, the brand new supermarket on the edge of the town centre – rather than on the edge of the town itself. And now this fantastic new market, which we really hope will bring many more people into the town and help to keep the town centre viable.”

The team at Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth’s award winning shopping centre, are working with Morpeth Town Team, Northumberland County Council and Morpeth Town Council on the new project with the aim of putting the weekly Wednesday Market and monthly Farmers’ Market on the map.

New stalls and branding as well as anchor points and a local marketing campaign have been introduced as part of the unique public-private partnership initiative, Saturday’s Farmer’s Market and Food Festival was the first opportunity to see the new stalls and layout.

Adam, who started his working life as a market trader kicked off the cooking demonstrations after the official opening and hosted the demonstration kitchen on the market place throughout the day as local chefs showcased some of their own favourite dishes.

He said: “”It really is a breath of fresh air to see an initiative like this and to see everyone working together and realising that High Street shopping isn’t just about one thing or the other, it’s about the whole town coming together and the community working together – making it an ideal place to shop. It’s great to be part of a project like this and fantastic to see what has been achieved here in Morpeth.”

Centre Manager at Sanderson Arcade Medi Parry said the feedback from Saturday’s market has been really positive – the new stalls will next be used on the Wednesday weekly market.

She added: “Everyone has really worked together to make this a fantastic celebration of what can be achieved, the town was really buzzing on Saturday.

“We are delighted to be involved with the new market in Morpeth and are confident it will continue to grow and thrive, we are already planning on making the Food and Drink Festival an annual event in the town.”

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Nabma News - October 2013.

I am writing this article the week before the Nabma Conference so it is difficult to make an assessment of how things will go but the build up has been good and I am anticipating that we will have a great time.

In the weeks prior to Conference I have had the pleasure of joining the judging panel to decide awards for what has now become the “Oscars Night”of the markets industry. It has been humbling to see so many fantastic entries promoting the work of market officers and markets all around the country. The panel had a number of difficult decisions to make before agreeing a list of recipients.

The award for outstanding service to the markets industry goes to Ann Coffey MP. Ann works tremendously hard to support her local market in Stockport and also the markets industry nationally through her chairmanship of the All Party Parliamentary Markets Committee. In recent years we have seen unparalleled support by government for markets and Ann’s role has been crucial in securing this support.

The market industry is blessed with many dedicated market officers and the award of Market Officer of the Year gives us an opportunity to recognise one of these officers. Andy Ward of Sheffield is an elder statesman among market officers readily giving of his time and experience to help others. His contribution to Nabma has been tremendous with support for benchmarking, health checks, the buddy scheme and the Diploma. He is also presiding over the move to Sheffield new Indoor Market which will be a tremendous boost for markets generally.

A successful market team is crucial to any market and we have many such teams around the country. Bromley Market Team has demonstrated its success by embracing Love Your Local Market , the Diploma and managing a mixed markets portfolio. The award also recognises the efforts of Peter Turvey, the Manager, for his dedicated work with the London Benchmarking Group which has been a great support to Nabma in connection with a number of initiatives.

The largest number of entries came in the markets innovation category and what a joy it was to see so many different ideas. Many were connected with social media and this year’s award goes to the Barnsley MarketApp. Barnsley have one of the biggest and most successful open markets in the country and the market app was launched as part of their Love Your Local Market campaign. It promises to make a significant difference to the promotion of the market.

In addition to these awards the “Oscars Night” also gives us a chance to present the latest batch of Diplomas in Market Administration. Launched two years ago the Diploma is now recognised as the professional qualification of the markets industry.

Much of the credit for the Diploma must go to Dennis, Nabma Training and Development Officer, who will be retiring after Conference. Dennis has made a tremendous contribution to markets both in Derby and nationally through Nabma and the former Institute of Market Officers. He deserves the recognition of the whole markets industry for what he has achieved. He will leave an important legacy.

Aside from Conference Nabma is starting a twelve months review in September . While the last few years have seen Nabma enjoy great success it is important that our services and structure are kept under review and the first stage in the process will be a comprehensive questionnaire about Nabma services. This will be followed by three regional meetings in October and early November to discuss the future in more detail. It is intended to complete the process and introduce any changes by next year’s Conference.

The last few weeks have been very busy with lots of members raising issues about registering market charters and questions such as where do I find a Latin translator and what do we do as we have found our charter is not relevant to our current market service . It has proved a “wake up” call to many members but hopefully most have now taken the required action. One member reported that the registration procedure is ‘straight forward’ provided you have the relevant information. The deadline is fast approaching so do not delay if you need to take action.

Prior to writing this article I boarded a train. I was greeted at the station by a large advertisement hoarding with the strap line ‘Love Your Local College’ with the heart shaped motif alongside. What do they say about imitation?

Graham Wilson OBE

Chief Executive,

Nabma

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Hitchin market team gets a shocking new addition

Hitchin Markets Manager Tony Howes said, “We are delighted that we will be here for another 5 years and we hope to continue to run a thriving market”.

In other news, Market users who end up fighting for life in Hitchin are in for a shock, with staff now having been trained by Maggie Hackney, who has an MBE for services to healthcare, market staff are now ready for action if someone has a heart attack in the market.

Training the team as part of the British Heart Foundation’s Heartstart initiative, Maggie also secured the market its own defibrillator as part of her efforts. Market manager Tony Howes said: “Hopefully we never have to use it, but if we have to it could save somebody’s life.

It’s not easy to learn but then it wasn’t hard either because Maggie is a very good trainer. “We all went round to Maggie’s house for a two-and-a-half hour training session on heart attacks and how to use the defibrillator. “There’s between 30 and 40 things we have to remember to do, like we have to try and wake them up first and make sure they aren’t wet. “Because of where we are and the older people within the market this defibrillator is vital.” He added: “What we are thinking of doing is offering use of it to market traders who want to be trained too. “What Maggie is doing is a wonderful thing and we are so grateful.”

“There’s between 30 and 40 things we have to remember to do, like we have to try and wake them up first and make sure they aren’t wet. Because of where we are and the older people within the market this defibrillator is vital.”

He added: “What we are thinking of doing is offering use of it to market traders who want to be trained too.

“What Maggie is doing is a wonderful thing and we are so grateful".

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John and Sue Shaw they retired after 60 years in the market selling ladies fashion and knitwear.

John Shaw's father had the business when John was introduced on to the market at the tender age of 12 years helping to set up his father's stalls.

They attended markets at South Elmsall, Pontefract, Barnsley as well as here.  Their business in Mexborough market hall commenced in the late 1940's with John starting in 1952 (year I was born cough!).
Shaws also had a shop for many years in nearby Conisbrough near the famous (Ivanhoe) Conisbrough castle until John became ill about 10 years ago and had to close the shop along with his markets other than Mexborough in which his wife Sue continued however John has helped out.

John & Sue have family living in Greece and their retirement will consist of visiting them more often than they could do previously.  

Mexborough Market raise money for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Mexborough Market presented Yorkshire air ambulance with a cheque for £2365

Attending the presention were (from left to right in the photo) Sandra Deans NMTF branch Vice Chairperson and cosmetics stall holder, Wendy Bailey NMTF "Branch" chairperson & clothing alteration stall holder, Ralph Lowery Mexborough Market Supervisor Doncaster markets, Mark Perry South Yorkshire Regional Fundraiser Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Phil Toon Pet foods and First responder who introduced air ambulance fundraising to the market.

Initially the fund raising was started August 2009 with a display stand, background to photographs, with collection bucket and a number of collecting tins on various market stalls. Total raised and donated to date is £5365
Mexborough market has also been nominated for an award from Yorkshire air Ambulance for the length of time we have been promoting this worth while service.

Bow wow! National award for Bury Market trader

It’s anything but a dog’s life for a Bury Market trader who has won a national award in her first year of business.

Diddy Dapper Dogs was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ in the UK Pet Retailer of the Year category in the first Petquip awards.

Business owner Tracy Robinson began trading as a casual trader on Bury Market in May 2012, taking a three-day stall in October 2012 when her husband Nigel was made redundant. They now have a regular customer base at their Garden Block stall, and have a great relationship with other stall holders and customers.

Tracy said: “The market management have always been supportive and encouraged us each step of our journey, even when it has been through one of the coldest, hardest trading winters! It is less than one year since we opened our first shop premises, so when we put ourselves forward to be considered for this we never imagined that we would win an award.”

The stall sells everything a dog could need, from health products to treats and harnesses to coats. The couple also have a shop in Morecambe.
The first PetQuip Industry Awards were sponsored by Westland, Group 55/Animology, Symply Pet Foods/Canagan, Petface and PATS.

The awards were presented at a gala dinner in Harrogate by PetQuip’s director general Amanda Sizer-Barrett. Compere was Paul Huggins, CEO of JLM Global Foods.

“These first awards have been a great success,” said Pat Flynn, PetQuip’s trade association manager.

“We had a huge amount of high calibre entries and some well deserving winners. We have also had some great feedback with everyone enjoying themselves at the gala dinner and dancing well into the night thanks to a great band, the New Amen Corner.”

Najma's win the ‘Best Takeaway & Delivery’ in the Time & Leisure Food & Drink Awards 2013.

It’s been quite a year of trading! We have braved the snowy winter and stood on muddy grounds selling our hot curries and biriyanis. We have faced the gusty winds which almost had our gazebo taking off the ground! We stubbornly held our ground as the torrential rain threatened to wash out our stall on a seemingly summer’s day. But alas! Much fun was to be had in the sweltering heat dishing up our stall favourites to our curry lovers in and around South West London and Surrey.

I couldn’t be more thrilled for Najma’s to have won the ‘Highly Commended’ award for the ‘Best Takeaway & Delivery’ in the Time & Leisure Food & Drink Awards 2013.

Watch out for Najma’s Meatballs as will be return to our much favoured Windmill Market in Wimbledon during October and the much anticipated Christmas Market in New Malden!

www.markettradenews.com

Oswestry Indoor Market – Celebrates 50 Years as the Powis Hall

Markets have been a major part of the trading and historical importance of Oswestry and have existed for many centuries. The first known Charter was granted during the reign of Henry II when the Town was known as Whiteminster. In 1262 a Charter was granted by John FitzAlan, Lord of the Manor To our Burgesses of our village of Oswaldestree.

The Powis Hall Indoor Market Hall was originally maintained by the Lord of the Manor, and was the Town Hall or Guildhall until premises adjacent were built in 1782. From this date until 1960 the building was used as a corn exchange, then as a butter and cheese market, and during the Second World War for emergency storage and for auxiliary fire service purposes. On the 11^th September Oswestry Indoor Market celebrated 50 years old at its current location.  The hall was reconstructed in 1963 to its present design and is open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday throughout the year.  Recently the market undertook an ambitious refurbishment and was awarded Best Local Council Market 2013.  The Mayor, The Earl of Powis and the Chairman of Markets all helped celebrate the occasion with both the traders and customers of the market.  This the newly reopened market back in 1963. 

Teresa Jones who has been in our market for 33 years and was recently awarded a long serving award by the Mayor Chris Scolfield and Chairman of Markets Mrs Cynthia Hawksley

The Off Price Show 2013

With little more than a month until the doors are opened to the UK’s leading fashion stock event, esteemed wholesale companies and a wave of exciting new exhibitors will display unrivalled offers over two days of invigorating trading.

Following the growing success of past events, the 23rd successful edition of the Off-Price Show has been expanded to incorporate a bigger and better range of stock, including high quality apparel, footwear, accessories with major brands, exclusive lines, sportswear giants, ex-chainstore ranges and niche labels at a massive 70% off normal wholesale prices.

The show is held over the two days on 22nd-23rd September 2013, and in addition to a comprehensive trading platform, there are additional benefits for buyers who attend. FREE Business Improvement seminars will help visitors to fight the current challenges, stay ahead of competitors, gain knowledge and advantageous tips from our expert speakers. There are also quality catering facilities where a selection of food and beverages will be served, enabling a relaxed forum for meetings between visits to the show floor.

Event Director, Buzz Carter, told MTN, “The Autumn show will be excellent for buyers as we have a number of new companies alongside show favourites. We will have the largest sportswear selection for a few years alongside traditional casual and formal fashion wear, together with great designer brands, denim and outdoor wear.”

Other suppliers showcasing this September include Eles Clothing and Trafford Wholesale who can provide a vast range of ex-chainstore stock from the biggest names on the high street.

Leading manufacturers such as Design House have the capacity to supply additional end of season stock, cancelled orders, returns and surplus high fashion apparel that are developed for some of the biggest names in the industry such as M&S, Topshop, Next and Austin Reed.

Major wholesalers will be supplying current and past season stock, from top designer names such as Armani, Gucci and Calvin Klein, while at the sporting end of the spectrum, casual wear giants including Nike, Adidas and Reebok will be made available by long standing experienced suppliers such as Topgrade Sportswear and Ski and Sport.

Award winning, up-and-coming companies such as Room 31 Wholesale prove that with the right stock at the right prices, businesses can continue to flourish despite challenging times, with other successful companies such as Q Clothing expanding.

An expanded edition of the Off-Price Show set to be the best yet its lines to include more childrenswear, and consistently adding exciting new brands. Top quality unbranded imports and cut-label products will also be available as well as companies’ own labels.

This wide variety of products creates an ideal environment for retailers, market traders, wholesalers and ebayers to increase their profit margins and source collections from the best suppliers in the market. The majority of the products will be available from stock or short order. This flexibility means buyers do not have to place large forward orders and can adapt their offering to the seasons’ latest trends at a moment’s notice, while larger retail buyers will also be able to source substantial orders with pieces supplied by the thousands.

All who visit the Off-Price Show will see first hand the great bargains and discounts that are on offer, with an unmissable opportunity to meet new suppliers, network with colleagues and enhance business. Conveniently located at London’s Olympia, the event is situated very close to the M4 (with M25 interchange not far away), and easily reached by overground, underground and bus connections.

Things are looking good at Tameside

Tameside Markets are going from strength to strength. Ashton’s famous indoor and outdoor markets still cater for all shoppers, offering a wide range of foods – including hosting the North West’s biggest Farmers’ Market on the last Sunday of every month. Other popular items include clothing, hardware, groceries and many household items both indoor and out.

Moving with the times this proud Victorian Market Hall has recently established a communal seating area where shoppers can stop, rest, eat, drink and chat and keep in touch via the new wi-fi system that has been installed.

A major new project is also due to take place as £4.5m has been committed by Tameside Council to enhance the outdoor historic market square with work forecast to start on site in 2014.

The new Hyde Market now also proudly boasts 48 brand new, covered outdoor stalls with costs starting at just £12 a stall.

If you are interested in becoming a trader at either Ashton-under-Lyne or Hyde Markets please contact: 
0161 342 3268.