A market trader from Stockport has been shortlisted for a National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Award.
The awards took place in York on Monday, June 9 at The Royal York Hotel and celebrated entrepreneurs who have launched a business on one of the nation’s 1,400 markets.
Zoe Simpson, pictured left) 32, of Dragon Fly Blooms, which trades on Stockport Market, was shortlisted for the award through First Pitch.
First Pitch is a market trader start-up scheme to encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to start up a business on the market. Stockport Council teamed up with NMTF to promote the scheme to Stockport businesses last year.
So far the scheme has supported 100 entrepreneurs nationally, including Zoe Simpson, to start-up and run a markets-based business, offering discounted pitch fees, mentoring from a retail expert and free membership of the NMTF.
Zoe said,
“It means such a lot to me to be shortlisted for this award. The best thing about being a market trader is the traders; you really do feel like you are part of a little family. I love Stockport and I love the hall and its history. I can’t wait to get to work in the morning and I’ve never had that before! It was a massive leap to give up a salary but it has definitely been worth it.”
Cllr Patrick McAuley, Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration said,
“Congratulations to Zoe, being shortlisted for this award is a huge achievement. Markets have an increasingly important role in the changing nature of the high street. In Stockport, we’ve seen how fresh ideas and new traders can attract large numbers of visitors back to their local market. Market stalls are also a great way for new businesses to get up and running, with low start-up costs and flexible terms. Visit www.stockport.gov.uk/tradeonstockportmarket and find out more about Stockport Market.”
Following a rigorous process of assessment by market trading experts, one entrepreneur will be awarded £2,000 for outstanding achievement over the past 12 months.
For further information about Stockport Market, including opening a stall visit www.stockport.gov.uk/tradeonstockportmarket