A new operator is set to takeover the popular Nailsworth market.
The LoveNailsworth Business Group have been successful in their bid to keep the monthly market in Nailsworth running. The first market is scheduled to run on Saturday, August 9 at 10am.
Tony Davey, Interim Chairman of the LoveNailsworth group commented: “We are delighted that our Market Working Group won the bid to run this important market in Nailsworth, securing its future. As with any change of custodian, there will be changes, but we have invested significant time and effort into planning improvements that will have a positive and holistic impact on the town, and should improve the market experience for the traders and customers alike, whilst also considering the needs of the bricks-and-mortar businesses in the town for whom we hope to bring more trade. Within LoveNailsworth we have ambitious plans to step up the marketing of the town as a destination, with the market being an important part of the overall offering. We have good public transport links, a cycle track almost to our door, and a wealth of wonderful shops explore and cafes to enjoy. We want to get that message out so more people discover and love Nailsworth as we do.”
The market will move to the second Saturday in the month, with a plan not just to run the monthly market but other markets for special events. The market will start at 10am and conclude at 2pm. These new timings reflect statutory requirements on keeping chilled food, plus can better facilitate stays in town for lunchtimes and more general browsing. Those who wish to quickly visit town businesses ahead of the market opening will be able to do so.
Liz Townley, Market Manager and Working Group lead, added: “We are excited to be the new operators of this beloved market within such a prominent town position. We hope that many of the existing traders will want to continue serving the customers of Nailsworth, and we have capacity to bring some new faces into the mix too. A diversity of traders that do not mirror in-town offerings is at the heart of our selection process, along with hosting voluntary organisations to give them a much-needed platform to raise awareness of their work in our communities.”
Nailsworth Mayor Peter Bodkin said: “Nailsworth Town Council is delighted to have been able to secure the future of the Mortimer Garden Market. The Council is confident that LoveNailsworth Business Group are well placed to establish a vibrant market in the town quickly and for it to evolve alongside existing businesses as a major draw for residents and visitors alike.”
More information about the Nailsworth Artisan Market can be found at VisitStroud.uk/NAM. Anyone interested in having a stall at one of the markets is urged to contact NailsworthArtisanMarket@gmail.com
