The Changing Face of Market Trading

Being a market trader has always been more than just a job to me—it’s been a way of life for the past 12 years. There’s something special about setting up my stall in the morning, chatting with customers, and being part of the lively buzz of a market. Markets aren’t just about buying and selling; they’re about connection, atmosphere, and keeping our towns and festivals full of life.

But times are changing, and we traders are feeling it more than ever.

The Rise of Online Shopping

With websites like Amazon and Temu offering goods at unbelievably cheap prices, many shoppers are being drawn online. It’s easy to see why—click a button and something arrives at your door the next day. But what that often means for small traders like myself is fewer people walking through markets, fewer customers stopping to browse, and more people asking why our prices can’t be as low as what they’ve seen online.

Over the past few years, the markets have become more of a tourist attraction rather than a retail destination, and some days we feel like exhibits in a museum.

The Reality for Traders

What a lot of people don’t see is the effort and commitment behind every stall. We’re out there in all weathers—wind, rain, and blazing sunshine—loading vans at dawn, setting up heavy stalls, and standing for long days. Even when we’re unwell, many of us still show up, because this isn’t just a hobby, it’s our livelihood. For a lot of traders, the income from the market is the only income they have.

When someone asks why our prices aren’t as low as online, it can feel frustrating. We simply can’t compete with huge companies mass-producing goods overseas. What we can offer, though, is something that online shopping never will: a face-to-face experience, personal service, and the chance to find something unique.

Why Markets Matter

Markets are part of our culture and our communities. They bring people together, give towns and festivals their character, and support hundreds of small businesses and families. Every purchase from a stall goes directly to someone working hard to keep their business alive—not to a faceless corporation.

Looking Ahead

The world is changing fast, but I still believe there’s a place for markets and for traders like me. There will always be people who prefer to see and touch what they’re buying, to chat with the person selling it, and to walk away with something special.

So next time you pass a market stall, remember the hard work and heart that goes into it. Stopping to shop with us really does make a difference—it keeps local businesses alive, supports families, and helps ensure our markets remain part of the community for years to come.