InExeter announces Markets Programme for 2023

InExeter is pleased to announce the Markets Programme for 2023, which will feature the Fore Street Flea and the return of The Exeter Independent Market.

The Exeter Independent Market is set to take place monthly from April through September, following its successful debut on Cathedral Green in July 2022. With the support of Exeter Cathedral and organised by Markets Manager Lottie Stanley, the market will feature over 60 stalls on the steps at the front of the Cathedral and the West Front. The market will also showcase a new curated ‘suitcase pitch’ area, live music, and street entertainment to surprise and delight visitors, making it a spectacular event for the city.

"We are thrilled to announce the return of The Exeter Independent Market for 2023," said Lottie Stanley, Markets Manager at InExeter. "Last year this market was a tremendous success, and we are excited to build on that momentum.

"This year we will have new suitcase pitches to help start-up businesses as well as live music, entertainment, and incredible street food for our visitors."

The Exeter Independent will showcase the best and the brightest the Southwest has to offer including InExeter independent businesses as well as a curated mix of independent foodies, artisan craft plus vintage and preloved treasures.

Lottie's passion lies in nurturing emerging talent, especially those who are new to the market and lack familiarity with trading. To address this need, she has been working with Jenny Curtis from Maker Mart on Gandy Street to introduce a novel concept called the ‘suitcase pitch’ to the market. Lottie explains that she frequently encounters up-and-coming creators who are just starting out and require guidance in taking their first steps into market trading.

Since setting up a market stall can be financially burdensome, especially for those starting out, Lottie and Jenny have developed the suitcase pitches to assist the market traders of tomorrow. These pitches provide an ideal testing ground for new traders, allowing them to try their hand with just a single square metre of space and a suitcase of their products. Lottie is thrilled about this exciting new opportunity to not only support new business ventures but also offer fresh and original products that may be entirely new to the public.

The Fore Street Flea, a popular market in the West Quarter, has 4 dates in the diary for 2023 in May, July, September, and November. This market is a haven for bargain hunters, providing them with the opportunity to unearth one-of-a-kind treasures and local gems. The event is always a hit among locals and involves a road closure, with stalls lining either side of Fore Street. The market comprises independent businesses on Fore Street, local traders, and individuals selling their wares. According to Lottie, the best aspect of the Fore Street Flea is the element of surprise.

"You never know what you might come across," she says. "From handmade jewellery to preloved and retro clothing, homemade trinkets and second-hand treasures, the market is a rummager's paradise."

"We are committed to supporting local businesses and promoting markets which bring activation and footfall to the city," said Ann Hunter, BID Manager.

"The markets offer an opportunity for small, independent businesses to showcase products and market days bring a vibrant atmosphere to the city.”

Last year, InExeter collaborated with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) with Exeter hosting the Regional Finals of the NMTF Young Traders Awards where young traders from across the Southwest came to compete for acclaim and recognition (as well as prizes). InExeter are working with the NMTF again for 2023 and will be hosting the Regional Finals for a second year in August.

“We want to build on last year’s success,” said Lottie. “Some of the Independent businesses in Exeter started out at markets before they had premises, and I am keen to assist young entrepreneurs to establish themselves at markets to help them on their business journey.”

Lottie also works on seasonal markets such as the Pop-Up Emporium and is working with other organisations in the city to produce their own markets. More information on these can be found on the website www.marketsinexeter.co.uk.

The dates for the markets organised by InExeter are as follows:

The Fore Street Flea, 12-4pm, Fore Street, Exeter

Sunday 14th May

Sunday 16th July

Sunday 17th September

Sunday 19th November

The Exeter Independent Market, 11am - 4pm, Exeter Cathedral Green

Saturday 29th April

Saturday 27th May

Saturday 17th June

Saturday 29th July

Saturday 26th August

Saturday 30th September

Young Traders Awards Market – Regional Final, 11am – 4pm, Exeter Cathedral Green

Saturday 5th August