Makers Market showcases small businesses in Northern Quarter
- The Makers market returns to Northern Quarter
- Sophie of Cuckoo Creations gives her thoughts on selling products at the markets
- Everything you need to know before visiting the makers market
The Makers Market returned to Northern Quarter this weekend giving local small businesses the opportunity to sell their products.
The market visits the Northern Quarter once a month with different vendors offering a variety of food, hand-crafted products and second-hand clothing.
The Makers Market began operating markets in 2011 and now bring its stalls to twenty locations around the North-West.
What is the Makers Market like for the businesses?
Sophie began Cuckoo Creations five years ago selling her items online but prefers the market setting.
She said: “The best thing about the market setting is you build a relationship with your customers, I’ll see the same people every month.
“Some just come for a chat and they might buy one little thing, but you build that relationship and trust, so if they have to get a present for someone they think of you.
“It’s such a nice bond, one you don’t get over the internet with Instagram or TikTok where you can’t build the same repartee.”
What is it like for customers?
The market allows for people to shop for things they won’t find regularly on the high-street with one shopper comparing it to Etsy in real life.
Crowds begin to form from the markets opening with peak crowds from 12pm to 2pm as people buy their lunch from various stands.
The rise of street markets
Differing from traditional markets, street markets like the Makers Market are becoming increasingly popular around the UK.
Street markets allow people to spend locally within their community, similar to the market halls which have existed for many years.
One reason the Makers Market finds success is due to its changing location.
Sophie said: “I’ve done this market every month since May 2020. I sell at markets all over the country, I’ve been to Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool and Birmingham. I travel loads for it, which I really love.”
When is the next Makers Market in Northern Quarter?
The Makers Market will return to the Northern Quarter on the 9th of June with many stalls returning from May.
There are also events running in both Chorlton and in Spinningfields on Saturday 18 May before heading to Crewe and Sale on 19 May.