LocalMarkets News & Analysis

Liverpool Christmas Market Stall Costs Reach £12,000 Per Pitch

Traders at Liverpool's Christmas market claim they have been priced out this year due to stall fees reaching £12,000. Anthony Grice reported this fee for a pitch at the St George's Plateau market, now run by the new operator Underbelly. Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson acknowledged the challenges faced by traders and stated he met with business owners to discuss the issues. The council was aware of the pricing set by Underbelly when awarding the contract and will receive a share of the income. However, some traders feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed, with doubts about the number of local traders signed up under the new arrangement. The high fees have raised concerns about the loss of local trader participation and the market's ability to showcase local businesses, referred to as the market losing its 'Scouse soul.' The situation affects local vendors' access to this key seasonal sales event. This matters to local traders and the community as the increased costs could reduce the diversity and local representation at the market, impacting the market's appeal and potentially the revenue generated for the council and the new operator.