Bath micro businesses will be given a chance to trade at this year’s Christmas Market by hiring smaller ‘carts’ rather than the traditional chalets.
Twenty firms will be able to book the carts for three or four days at the market, which returns for the first time in two years on 24 November.
Bath & North East Somerset Council, which runs the market, says the carts are an ideal way for fledgling businesses to take part for the first time in one of the UK’s best-rated Christmas shopping events.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Bath Christmas Market has been ranked among the 10 best in Europe and attracts around 400,000 extra visitors to the city.
The last time it was held, in 2019, it boosted the city’s economy by an estimated £32.5m.
This year it will run for 18 days, with a wide range of stall holders filling the city’s historic streets. The carts will be in Green Street.
One business that has already booked a cart is Twerton-based jewellery brand Bramble Design.
Its owner Phillippa Crowther said: “As someone who has been visiting the market for years to do my Christmas shopping, I am now so excited to be a part of it by selling my handmade jewellery in one of the carts.
“I love face-to-face sales, meeting new people and soaking up the atmosphere and Bath is my absolute favourite place so I am hoping to expand my customer base and just enjoy my time there.”
Council leader Kevin Guy added: “This year we will have more than 170 chalets with traders selling a remarkable range of Christmas gifts as well as fantastic local hospitality.
“The Christmas Carts are a great way to support fledgling local businesses giving local traders the chance to showcase their goods to thousands of visitors who come to our wonderful city, which becomes extra special over the festive period.”
The market has an emphasis on artisan, locally produced food and good quality products.
Sustainability is also important to the market. Single-use plastics are not permitted – all stallholders must use environmentally friendly biodegradable alternatives for product packaging, bags, bottles, straws, containers, cups and cutlery.
For more information, including opening hours and travel instructions, visit bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
