A Wednesday Market trader has hit out at an incentive by the local authority that was aimed at increasing visitors numbers by introducing a food market.
Nicky Kelly who owns the independent business Adeli of Beverley says despite their best efforts stalls have dwindled and that traders pack up shop early.
Launched in March the scheme has come under increasing pressure from traders who feel it’s hitting their sales and also preventing the space being used in the afternoon.
Speaking to HU17.net a frustrated Mrs. Kelly said;
“Since the market started it has impacted my trade on Wednesday’s and I am seeing a loss of about 25pc on my takings.
“Over time, the stalls have dwindled down to just three in last four weeks. Furthermore, many of them have not come back as their trading is weather dependent.”
“Footfall has increased into Wednesday Market, which is good for all businesses, but it then detracts from business like ourselves as it hits our food sales.”
“In my opinion, my opinion the incentive has added nothing, they are part-time pitches and have packed up by 3PM in many cases yet the area is not opened up to cars until after 6PM.”
“These stalls should not be placed in front of local businesses that work all year-round to keep people in employment. It really is threatening our lively hoods.”
“The Markets are supposed to be continental Street Food and are anything but. Burgers Pizzas and Bread Stalls are not continental.”
“Plus the addition this week of a NHS truck advertising Healthy Eating and A children’s clothes shop which was offering portraits do not constitute Street food.”
A spokesman for East Riding of Yorkshire Council said:
“Wednesday Market is an area dedicated to holding markets every Wednesday and Saturday.”
“For a number of years, the number of traders attending on a Wednesday has declined. In order to reinvigorate the market the council has actively encouraged traders selling a variety of fresh foods to attend to compliment the cafe culture image within the town.”
“The number of traders has risen, and the council has received numerous compliments about the market.”
“Therefore, it is our belief that the market will continue to grow as we approach the summer season and will attract more customers to Wednesday Market to the benefit of all concerned.”
