The Full Entry
Ely Misses Out On ‘UK Best Market’ Award
Published Sunday, February 4th, 2007 by Karl Bedingfield
Ely just missed out on the coveted ‘Market of the Year 2007′ award last Wednesday (31 January). The Awards Ceremony took place at the NABMA Showcasing Markets Seminar at The Council House, Birmingham.
Ely’s market (along with Newark and Bury) were highly commended, recognising all those who have a role in making Ely Markets successful. A fine achievement when you consider that there were 50 entries in the category Best Street / Outdoor Market.
The recent success of Ely Markets led to ECDC entering the Market of the Year 2007 competition after growing in popularity and prestige since the Saturday general market was introduced to accompany the established farmers market in 2003, Ely Markets has continued to grow significantly while others in towns around the country have declined.
At a time when many markets are in decline, Ely Markets remain well supported.
Alison Callaby, Team Leader – Town Centres at ECDC
A study in 2005 by the East Cambridgeshire Retail, noted the ‘regular and thriving’ street market together with other factors meant that Ely was able to offer a shopping environment, which is not found in these larger centres. The study also singled out the ‘successful markets’ as ‘enhancing the attraction of Ely as a shopping destination’.
Alison Callaby, Team Leader – Town Centres at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: ‘This award recognises successful markets, their operators and the contribution that markets make to their towns retailing product. At a time when many markets are in decline, Ely Markets remain well supported and have continued to evolve to ensure they meet the needs of our growing population.
‘The Ely Markets encompass general goods, craft and collectibles and a vibrant farmers market, which means they cater for everyone.’
About ‘Market Of The Year
The Market of the Year award was first launched in 2005 to celebrate the 1,150 retail markets operating within the UK, which employ more than 96,000 people. Each year there are 435 million shopping visits to markets with over £1.1 billion being spent at stalls.
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