New market to help young people kickstart businesses

Published: Tue 30th April, 2024

Young people in Charnwood are being invited to sign-up to take part in a new market in Loughborough which aims to support budding businesses.

A pilot Loughborough KickStart Market will take place on Sunday May 26 between 10am-4pm and will provide an opportunity for young traders to try their hand at being a market trader.

The new market is being organised by Charnwood Borough Council’s Market Team and supported by Loughborough University.

It is for people aged 16-30, interested in either becoming a market trader or trying out running a stall to support their new businesses. Students can also sign-up for a stall to sell wares, display their work or gather feedback on their business ideas.

Alongside market stalls, there will be a range of food outlets and entertainment in the town such as music performances.

Christopher Grace, head of economic development and regeneration at Charnwood Borough Council said: “We are really pleased to be offering young people in Charnwood a chance to get involved with this pilot market in the heart of Loughborough town centre.

“The Council is keen to hear from young people who are interested in hosting a stall or who may want to perform in the town.

“Whether your small business already has an online presence and you want to venture into selling items face to face or wish to raise the profile of your freelance services, I would encourage you to get in touch and sign up.

“It is the first time the Council has run a market of this kind, and we are hoping people will also come along to support the event and see what’s on offer.”

Market stalls will be free of charge, but spaces must be booked in advance.

The Council has arranged public liability insurance for young traders. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Young people interested in taking part by either hosting a market stall or performing in the town can find out more and book a free stall by contacting the Markets Team on markets@charnwood.gov.uk

It is hoped further Loughborough KickStart Markets can be held in the future if this pilot proves popular with traders and visitors.

More information about the pilot of the Loughborough Kickstart Market can be found at: http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/Kickstart

Loughborough Markets’ Thursday and Saturday retail street markets are among the largest in the area and steeped in 800 years of history. Every Friday, a Vintage and Collectors Market takes place in Loughborough and a micro-market in Shepshed. Both are growing in popularity.

The Council is also bringing more and more specialist markets to the heart of Loughborough.

To find out more about Loughborough Markets visit: www.charnwood.gov.uk/markets