!!!! Happy New Year To All Those Who Support Their Local Market !!!!

Preparing For A Market

Preparing for a market really is just a matter of making sure that you are ready to show off your goods and services to their best advantage. Obviously you need to ensure that any stock required will be available in good time for the market. You may want to cellophane or package items to protect them or display them more attractively. You should think about how you intend to display items and whether you have the necessary stands or baskets etc. You might find it useful to practice your display and take a photograph which you can then use to recreate it - useful for a quick set-up under time pressure.
Double check that you have all the contact information, timings, venue details and directions that you need.

What to take to events,

There are a number of things that are useful, if not essential to take along to markets e.g.

Own table if not provided
Tablecloth - often useful to have a spare in case of extra, large or
unusually-shaped table.
Cash tin, float and calculator.
Notepad, pens, bluetac, sticky tape, scissors.
Bags.
Receipt pads and order forms if applicable.
Display equipment, baskets or stands.
Flask and refreshments.
Business cards.
Price signs.
Brochures or leaflets.
Stock.
Canopy, gazebo, all weather protection.
Sunscreen and hat.
Chair if not provided.

The Christmas Countdown Is On

Site Available Maybe Suitable For Market

If you are interested in having a market, maybe with some organic produce
there, it is centred near schools and preschools and is about 800 meters to
the railway station and the Pacific Hwy and 3k from the express way F3.
8 High st Berowra
The area is 4000sqm comprising of 3500sqm land and 500sqm building, the site
is worth having a look at.

Make Sure Your Market Is Promoting Christmas

Make sure your market is promoting Christmas. Make sure you are promoting Christmas on your stall. There is only a few weeks left to take advantage of the Christmas rush. Remind your customers only a few weeks to go.

Time To Dress Your Market Stall For Christmas

It's now November, Christmas is just around the corner.
We are moving into the largest retail sales period for the year. 
Go out of your way to give a festive feeling to your market stall.
Spend a bit of time when setting up to dress up your tables with Christmas decorations. 
It reminds customers they need to be buying special gifts and colourful decorations attracts customers to your stall.

Christmas Shopping At The Markets

It's great to visit your local market at this time of year. Get in early for those Christmas gifts. You'll find so many unusual gifts all in one location. There are always bargains to be had. As we've said before it is a such a wonderful experience visiting markets with the whole family. You'll find markets that trade every weekend and even during the week. Maitland Country Fair trades their normal 1st Sunday and extra 3rd Sundays of the month until Christmas.

Father's Day

Sunday 4th September 2011 is Father's Day.
Buy a present for Dad at your local market.
Take Dad to the markets on Father's Day.
There is so much to see and do for the whole family.

Every Kid Loves A Balloon!!! Fairfield Markets NSW

Just Moments in Time now at Parklea Markets Sundays

Yes I have decided to take on another Market in addition to Penrith(Wed) and Fairfield (Sat). We had our first Sunday on the 9th August and received a fantastic reception. We look forward to serving the North West from this popular location.
I must also mention the reception given to us by Edgar and his team. Never before have I seen Market management extend the hand of welcome and willingness to work together. This is how stallholders should be treated.
So for the conversion of all media both Video/Digital and Audio to DVD or CD along with Photo Restoration come and see us at Parklea but remember it is on Sundays only 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Or ring me on 0407081948
www.justmomentintime.com.au

Go Visit Your Local Market

This weekend is as good as any to visit your local market. There is plenty to see and do. It's a great experience for the whole family. Saturday why not try Fairfield Markets in Fairfield Showground NSW. Over 600 stalls wanting to serve you with a great bargain. Sunday visit Maitland Fair Maitland Showground. in the beautiful Hunter Valley NSW. If your in Sydney on Sunday why not try Parklea Markets at Parklea. Well worth the trip. They boast parking for 17,000 vehicles. This is an all weather market not far from the centre of Sydney. Get there by car or public transport.

Names In Frames

Names In Frames is now at Parklea Markets Parklea NSW
every Sunday. If you can't find their stall ask at the Information Counter.
Made On The Spot.
NAMES IN FRAMES

Your First Day As A Market Stallholder

1. If you are setting up at a market for the first time, it would be useful to prepare a bit in advance. You might need a few things like a banner, a table cloth, display stands (depending on your product), leaflets, business cards etc. Make sure they are ready/ bought in time for the market day.
2. Practise setting up the table at home, do the changes if required and then take a picture with your phone. On the day of the market, you can refer to the photo to get the right arrangement.

Dive In For A Bargain

A novel way to sell socks!!!

Just A Reminder Of The Stalls At Penrith Markets

Come to Penrith Markets every Wednesday

.

Found At Penrith Markets

A pet mouse was found checking out a stall. The pet was returned to its owner, a small boy in tears. All ended well ;-)

Starting A Market Stall

Farmers markets, handicraft markets, artisan markets, food markets, indoor markets, outdoor markets … there's no doubt that we love visiting markets.
No doubt you've been to one — but have you considered running your own stall?
Whether it's extra money you're after or the launching pad for a new business, a market stall could be just what you need.
"It's one of the best ways to turn a hobby into a money-making venture," says Margie Sheedy, author of The Small Business Success Guide. "It's a fantastic way to test the market and put yourself, and your ability, to sell out there."
Libby Parsons sells her handmade women's clothing exclusively through Surry Hills and Kirribilli markets in Sydney, under the label Zardie.
"I chose the markets as it is a good gauge of whether people appreciate your product," she says. "I see it as a starting point, to get my label known."
For Parsons, the best thing about selling at markets is that she meets the people who buy her clothes. "You build up more of a relationship," she says. And the worst part? "Markets are really unpredictable — you never know if it's going to be a good day or a bad one!"
Whether you're creating a business or simply looking for a way to make ends meet, Sheedy says clear goals are a must.
"Start as you mean to go on," Sheedy says. "Know what you want to achieve before you begin. Be strategic at a very basic level. If you're trying to create a money-making venture, then start doing it the way you want to finish it."
To get you started, here are 10 tips for setting up a market stall.

• Research the markets in your area
  Not all markets are created equal and they all draw different customers. "Visit the different markets to work out which is best for your product," Parsons says. Sheedy suggests talking to the market organisers about who visits and how much they spend. "Don't waste your time taking your products to the wrong market," she says.
• Markets cost money
  "You'll need cash to start up," Sheedy says. "Money to produce or procure your product plus site fees. Don't forget to factor in your time." Most markets offer "casual" stalls, with some offering the possibility of becoming permanent.
• You will need some hardware
  Things like tables, chair, marquee or an umbrella will be essential. You could try an indoor market first, if there's one in your area, as these often provide tables. This will give you a chance to test the waters. If you're outdoors, don't forget weights to hold your tent down in case of high winds. A money belt is very important to keep your cash safe and secure.
• Don't forget the extras
  Read the regulations for stallholders at your market of choice very carefully. If public liability insurance isn't covered in the stall fee, you may need to get some — and some markets will require product liability insurance as well. You will also need to work out whether you will need to register for GST. Talk to your accountant.
• Be organised and professional
  Have enough money in your "float" to give ready change. Make sure you have enough stock with you. Remember bags for packing customer's purchases — brown paper bags are readily available, cheap and eco-chic. "Be ready when customers come to your stall," Sheedy says. "Have a business card in case they ask. Word-of-mouth referrals are important with markets."
• Know your customer
  When considering pricing, remember you are selling at markets. "Market customers like to get a bargain," Parsons says.
• Think about promotion and presentation
  How are you going to stand out from all the other stalls? "Also consider how you might capture customer information," Sheedy says. "Can you create a mailing list to keep people up to date on your next market appearance in the area? This might be particularly useful if your region tends to have markets in different places on different weekends." The list could also be the beginning of an online business.
• Get used to swings and roundabouts
  "Markets are unpredictable," Parsons says. "Don't be too disheartened if you have a bad day." Basically, if the weather is good, customers may choose to go to the beach instead. If it's bad, they may choose to stay in bed. No crowds equals no sales. But bear in mind that you will need to pay your site fees regardless.
• Be prepared for long hours
  Markets often require a very early setup and you'll need to stay to the bitter end of the day, even if you're not selling anything. Add in travelling, setting up and unpacking time and make sure you factor this in to your profits. You may find you're working for $3 an hour.
• Keep a sales book
  Write down what you sell and where. It will give you an idea of what's working at different markets.

Mother's Day 8 May 2011

Mother's Day is just around the corner. Maitland Markets is on Sunday 1 May 2011.
It's a great time to pick up a present for Mum. This market sells everything, so make a day of it.
Take Mum for a day out this is really a family friendly market.

Also try Penrith Markets NSW every Wednesday.
Fairfield Markets every Saturday.

School Holidays In NSW

It's school holidays and crowds were up at Penrith mid week market Penrith NSW. Open from 8.00am - 1.30pm every Wednesday there are plenty of things to see and do. Take the time this school holidays, it really is worth the visit. Bargains are everywhere. The variety is astounding. Hundreds of stalls.


View Larger Map

Mother's Day Coming Soon

Mother's Day is on the 2nd Sunday in May.
Don't forget to promote this day on your stall.
People are looking for something different to
buy Mum.

The Social Experience In Visiting A Market

Markets are a great place to visit for families. You'll have a great time. The variety of goods, both commercial and hand crafted, face painting, temporary tattoos,  fruit and veg, takeaway food etc, all add to the experience. Allow a couple of hours when you visit. With the cooler months upon us why not take the time to visit. There are mid week markets like Penrith Markets NSW on every Wednesday, Saturday markets like Fairfield  Markets NSW and Sunday markets like Maitland Country Fair NSW.
Once you've visited you'll be hooked.

Valentine's Day

Don't forget Monday 14 February is Valentine's Day.
Valentine's Day is an annual commemoration held on February 14 celebrating love and affection.
Visit your local market this weekend for that special gift!

Maitland Markets Returns For 2011

Sunday 6 Feb 2011 sees Maitland Country Fair return for the year. This market is a must visit, so get there this year.

It's Summer In Sydney

It's summer in Sydney. The days can be hot.
Visit your local market early in the day.
Most stalls are set up by 8am. Go early in the
cooler part of the day. You'll have the added advantage
of the early bird bargains.
Photos below taken at Penrith Market every Wednesday 8.00am - 1.30pm

Eric the Busker at Fairfield Markets

Do You Have A Unique Idea Or Product

Your local market is a great place to try a new product. For very little outlay you can test what consumers think of your ideas and products. There is a more intimate feel between sellers and customers at your local market. Customers are always ready to give you feedback on your product or service. You'll quickly get ideas from this valuable feedback on which you can act if necessary. It is also a great way to get leads and contacts for your business.

What Is Australia Day 26 January ?

Australia Day celebrates the arrival of Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, eleven convict ships from Great Britain and the first governor of New South Wales, at Sydney Cove. The raising of the Union Jack there symbolised British occupation of the eastern half of the continent.
The tradition of noticing 26 January began early in the nineteenth century with Sydney almanacs referring to First Landing Day or Foundation Day.
The celebration of Australia Day was first held in 1935.
Since 1994 Australia Day has been consistently held as a public holiday on that date
Australia Day is a public holiday throughout Australia. So have a great day Australia.

 

2011 Looks Like It Will Be A Great Year At The Markets

Visitor numbers are up already compared to the same time last year.
This may a good time to go over a few points.

Reasons To Visit Your Local Market

• Wide variety of goods at affordable prices
• Healthy open air activity all year round
• Sense of community
• Atmosphere
• Dependability
• Individual service
• Environmentally  friendly
• If you are new to an area, it’s a great way to meet local characters, hear local gossip and find out what is important to those who live in the area.
• You’ll find goods that you won’t necessarily find in shopping centres.

If you treat the traders with friendly respect, in most cases they’ll welcome you back like an old friend.

Handy tips:
Don’t confuse markets with car boots.  Car boots are a very different affair.  The major difference being, car booters are private sellers out to make extra cash.  Market traders are business people who are out to make their living.
While haggling over price might be acceptable at a car boot, market traders do not take kindly to this practice.  Don’t believe everything you see on TV.  You wouldn’t haggle over the ticket price of $10.00 in a shop so treat a market stall as an outdoor shop.  If the trader wants to give you a discretionary discount, leave it up to them.
The most annoying question for a market trader is ‘what’s your best price?’  The best price is the one on the ticket!

If you would like to set up as a market trader.
Do your research, talk to traders, find out stall prices, research your product – decide whether you could cope with cold temperatures throughout the winter, business can’t just stop then! It’s not as easy as it looks.

There are different types of markets.
1. City centre markets (sometimes indoors). Sydney's Paddy's Market at Haymarket is a great example. City markets are usually open 4-5 days per week.
2. Weekly town markets, find out from the council or tourist office what day the market is on.  They are usually on one or two days a week.   Eg. Fairfield Markets NSW is on a Saturday all year round. Penrith Markets NSW Wednesdays all year round.
3. Farmer’s Markets are usually on once or twice a month, selling fresh produce straight from the farm.
4. Flea markets might be on the same day as the weekly town market.

Try something different from the everyday shopping malls, visit a market and hopefully you will be pleasantly surprised.

Maitland Markets First for 2011

First Maitland Market for 2011 will be on Sunday 6 February 2011 8am - 2.30pm.
There are over 600 sites covering 84 acres. Maitland Showground. Theme for the first market back is 'Valentine's Day Fair'.

Penrth Markets To Open On Australia Day

Penrith Markets will open on Wednesday 26 January 2011. Make it part of your Australia Day celebrations. The market will be open 8am - 1.30pm. This is a family oriented market.
Go grab a bargain.

The Non-Selective Sceptic: ADAPT, OR GO GERRY, THIS IS EVOLUTION, WE ARE A WO...

The Non-Selective Sceptic: ADAPT, OR GO GERRY, THIS IS EVOLUTION, WE ARE A WO...: "Many years ago perhaps in the 1950’s we had the shopping strip. The grocer, baker, butcher, hardware, chemist and general produce store for..."

Fairfield Markets NSW Returns Saturday 8 Jan 2011

The last market held at Fairfield showground was on 18 December 2010. The following two weeks were Christmas Day and New Year's Day. This weekend will see its return. So be there this Saturday for all the great bargains that can be found at Fairfield Markets NSW. Most of this market is undercover, so the weather doesn't matter.

Large Retailers Complaining They Are Hard Done By

It has been in the news this week and on talk back radio that the large retailers are suffering because customers are ordering goods on the internet. They have been saying they are 'badly done by' because buying online goods up to $1,000 does not attract the 10% Goods & Services Tax. The savings ordering online are much greater than 10%. Retailers in shopping centres have large overheads so require large profit margins to exist.

When you buy through your local market stall, stallholders in most cases, will sell their goods with small mark up margins, giving you the very best price. The overheads, operating a market stall are considerably less than in a shopping centre. Support your local market.


http://www.smh.com.au/business/retailers-gst-call-backlash-20110104-19f38.html