The first Young Entrepreneurs Market in Copeland has been hailed a resounding success – and plans are under way for a second event.
The market was held on Whitehaven’s King Street on Saturday and featured 14 young stallholders selling everything from cakes, candles and crafts to clothing, jewellery, gifts and paintings.
All stallholders reported strong sales, said organiser Copeland Council, and many town centre shops and cafes reported an upturn in trade as a result of the increased footfall.
Live music was performed by Zoe Warren, Chloe Fawcett and Grace Price.
Jenny Brumby, Copeland Council’s business liaison officer, said: “Our first Young Entrepreneurs Market went extremely well, and we’d like to thank everyone for their support.
“It was fantastic to see our talented young people running stalls and selling their wonderful homemade items; it was great experience for them and offers a tremendous boost to their confidence and customer service skills.
“Many of our stallholders didn’t want to close at the end of the day; they had enjoyed themselves so much!”
The stallholders were Bulwark Gaming; Better Days Bakes; Victoria March Skincare; Colour Chaos; Loved by Lucas; The Victorian Candle Company; Emma Hunt ART; Hollr; Embroidery by Jodie; Bethann Creates; plus four stalls from St Bees School pupils – C&Y; Eden Hands; Flaskn and Keyringtastic.
Mrs Brumby and Copeland Council are now analysing feedback and implementing changes and new ideas for the second market, scheduled for Saturday, July 10, for which there are already over 30 expressions of interest from stallholders.
Visiting the market was Copeland mayor Mike Starkie with his granddaughter Maeve.
He said: “There was a real buzz around Whitehaven; the singers were excellent and the sun was shining. The feedback we’ve received – in person and on social media – has been extremely positive and we aim to build on the success of this first event.”
Copeland Council’s director of corporate services and commercial strategy, Sarah Pemberton, whose initiative it was last summer to create a market for Copeland’s young entrepreneurs, said: “I am delighted that Copeland Council has been able to deliver on this fantastic new market to our communities, residents and visitors.
“The initial feedback to the council last year for a new-look market offering was overwhelming, and it’s credit to a determined and talented small team that has breathed life into our vision and enabled an overwhelmingly successful launch.
“Our challenge now is to attract more budding entrepreneurs who want to join their peers to showcase their skills, talents, crafts and hobbies. We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you with your own stall at our next event!”
Stallholders aged 25 and under receive a pitch for free and this initial launch stage of the market.
For more information, email [email protected]
