Stockport Market crowned Best Small Indoor Market 2023

The awards were held yesterday (Thursday 26 January) at a ceremony in Birmingham.
Organised by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA), the awards are recognised by market operators as the national awards for markets and are the biggest in the market industry, celebrating excellence in retail and wholesale markets across the UK.

The awards receive lots of entries with the winner chosen by a panel of industry experts, The market walked away with the top gong at the prestigious industry awards, fending off stiff competition from other markets.

The market was praised by the judges for ‘having a positive atmosphere with an excellent and exciting variance of stalls with traders and management working as a cohesive unit. The nomination confirms that Christmas 2022 witnessed the market looking its very best with huge community support and pride.’ They also recognised that the market ‘has embraced and made change for the present and long-term benefit of the market itself and its community.’

The Victorian Market Hall is fully occupied and home to over 30 traders selling a huge variety of products, whether it's a piece of original artwork from Kate O'Brien, fresh products from Wally’s Fruit and Veg or artisan cakes and bread from Sticky Fingers, the market has something for everyone.

It is managed by Market Place Management on behalf of Stockport Council, who took over the running of the market in early 2019.

Standing in Stockport’s Market Place, the market has a rich and colourful history which dates back to the Saxons. The stunning, Grade 2 listed ‘Glass Umbrella’ roof constructed of timber, iron and glass was erected in 1861, with the surrounding Market Place then home to dungeons, stocks, a whipping post and pillory.

Cllr Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “To be recognised as the best small indoor market in Britain is a fantastic achievement. The market is much loved by local people and visitors alike and is an important part of Stockport’s history. Our investment in Market Place and the surrounding Underbanks has really improved the area and attracted new, independent businesses that really complement the market.

“Congratulations to the traders and management who have so much pride in what they do and are such an important part of our retail community.”

Donna Tuxford, Market Manager, said: “I know the traders are thrilled to have won such an important award. Our traders have operated through some tough times the last couple of years but were always there with a welcome and a familiar face for our many loyal customers. It’s a privilege to operate from such a beautiful, historic building and hopefully this award will encourage more people to pay us a visit and experience that huge Stockport Market welcome, which we’re known for.”

To find out more about Stockport Market, visit: https://www.thestockportmarket.co.uk/
The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9am to 4.30pm and can be found Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES.