Okay so you’ve perfected your craft and you’re ready to turn your hobby into a profit, great idea! Selling at a market is a great way to start a business, meet with likeminded people and engage with potential customers. But it is a competitive space, so you need to be able to stand out from other traders. We’ve compiled a marketing checklist, split into main methods with some FAQ’s, to help you get started in attracting more customers, getting more visitors, and getting the most out of your market stall.
How to Attract Customers to Your Market Stall
Visual Appeal: First things first, you want to be able to catch people’s eye and make them stop and have a look to see what you have to offer. Do this with attractive signage, creative displays, and vibrant colours that reflect your brand.
Engagement: Have a chat! Get to know people and engage with potential customers without trying to force a sale. You could offer them samples, show them demonstrations, or even include interactive elements. I’ll write another blog on interactive ideas for a market stall so keep an eye out for this!
Unique Selling Point (USP): Ask yourself, “What makes my product different to everyone else’s?” and communicate your answer to customers through imagery and marketing materials at your stall.
How to Use Social Media for Market Stall Promotion
Create a Buzz: Make the most of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to create excitement about your stall, they’re free and very effective when used right! Share high-quality photos of your products, behind-the-scenes looks, and special offers to entice people.
Engage with Your Community: Posting pictures is only half the job. You need to respond to comments, share customers’ posts featuring your stall, and use local hashtags to really make the most out of social media. Searching hashtags is now one of the first things I do for an upcoming event to see what’s going, what I can expect and what others are saying about it.
Spread the Word: Got a big day coming up at the market? Shout it from the digital rooftops and keep everyone in the loop.
What Are the Best Local Marketing Strategies for a Market Stall
Partnerships: Team up with the shop next door or another stall for some friendly cross-promotion.
Local SEO: Get your stall popping up in local searches by listing your market stall on Google My Business.
Flyers and Posters: Hand out flyers and posters in local shops and cafes to attract nearby customers. An old-school, but still effective marketing method to appeal to the local community.
How to Increase Foot Traffic to Market Stalls
Special Offers: Tempt passers-by limited time offers or promotions to create urgency and attract more visitors.
Loyalty Program: Keep them coming back with a loyalty program. The loyalty card at my local fish and chip shop has gone down a treat in the neighbourhood (myself included)!
Signage: Use eye-catching signage to guide customers to your stall from various points within the market.
Do You Need a Licence for a Market Stall?
Check local regulations as most markets require vendors to have a valid trading license. This may vary depending on your location and the type of goods you’re selling.
How Can I Open Market Stall?
Research and choose a suitable market, then apply for a stall through the market’s management. Be prepared to provide details about your products and business.
What Can I Sell at a Market Stall?
This largely depends on the market’s theme and rules. Popular options include handmade crafts, local produce, vintage items, and artisan foods.
How To Get a Market Stall?
Contact the market organiser to enquire about availability and application processes. Early application and a clear business proposal can improve your chances.
How To Sell at a Market Stall?
Be the host with the most, know your stuff, and make your corner of the market feel like home. Price clearly, but be prepared to negotiate.
Do I need Insurance?
Yes, insurance is needed when trading at a market. You will need both public and product liability insurance and if you employ staff, you’ll need employers’ liability insurance too. You can get the required insurance easily at www.cmtia.co.uk.
