10 Simple Steps for First-Time Market Stallholders
Are you a newbie to markets? We’ve handed over the small business reins to Nikki Capewell, founder of market directory, Pedddle.
The platform plays host to a whole range of markets and is designed to make participation as simple and easy as possible. From one-click applications to a joyful community full of like-minded makers, Pedddle is the place to be if markets are high on your sales list.
If you’re planning your very first market and feeling a bit overwhelmed then fear not, Nikki has put together 10 simple steps to help you!
1
Do your research
What kind of person would buy your product and where can they be found? Are they going to shop from traditional markets, would they be on a family day trip in a cute village, or are they more likely to be at a cool pop-up shop in the city?
2
Build your brand
Branding is important for any business, no matter how small or large, and will carry through to all areas of your business. Ensure your stall references your brand colours and you have a clear logo that can be found on your packaging, your website and social media.
3
Prepare stock
Think concisely and be careful not to overload your stall! You could keep alternative options back, such as products in different colours and, if a customer shows interest, use it to initiate a conversation.
Consider what you will need to transport your stock and be sure you know how long it'll take you to get there – you don't want to end up struggling on the day!
4
Style your stall
Your stall layout is there to draw in passersby, so make sure it catches the eye! Give it a practice run in the comfort of your own home so you can time how long it takes and see what needs tweaking.
5
Ask questions
What is the exact size of your table or stall? Is there a floorplan, and where is your stall located on it? What are the parking arrangements at the venue – is there a charge, and how close can you pull up to the venue to unload stock? Is your stall upstairs or downstairs? Is it wheelchair accessible? What time can you set up from? Is there free Wi-Fi? Are there mains power sockets near your stall?
6
Consider payments
There are so many affordable options for POS (point of sale) systems these days, and most will charge a percentage to use them. Figure out which one is going to suit you best ahead of time.
7
Promote!
Tell your family, tell your friends, tell anyone who'll listen! Social media is vital – tell your followers where you'll be at, when, and what time.
If you don't have social media for your business yet, why not? Consider joining a directory like Peddle where you can check in beforehand.
8
Have what you need
The list really is endless, so make sure you're prepped ahead of time and have everything you'll need in order so that things go smoothly on the day. Perhaps create yourself a ‘market checklist’ that you can refer to every time you pack for a market.
9
Pack the essentials
Pack everything you need the day before the event. Charge your card reader if you are bringing one. Can you carry everything yourself, or will you need a helping hand? Print out the directions to the venue, so you can find you way in case of phone or satnav failure (you never know!).
10
On the day
Find out what time is the earliest you can arrive at the venue and get an early start. You will soon be a pro at setting up your stall, but until you’ve done it a few times, make sure you give yourself plenty of time.
Other than that, smile, engage with customers, and be proud of your products!
