NABMA has celebrated the outstanding people, teams and markets helping to shape the future of the industry at the NABMA Gala Awards Dinner in Harrogate.
Held as part of the NABMA AGM and Conference 2026, the annual awards ceremony brought delegates together to recognise exceptional leadership, innovation, resilience, partnership working and commitment to local communities across the UK markets sector.
This year’s ceremony also included two particularly special presentations: the first Geraldine Carter Award, created in memory of NABMA’s former President, and the Krys Zasada Award, NABMA’s highest annual honour.
More photos coming soon!
Honorary Life Membership: Pauline Rider
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Pauline Rider of Chelmsford Market; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
NABMA was delighted to confer Honorary Life Membership on Pauline Rider of Chelmsford Market.
Pauline was recognised for the leadership, operational skill, hard work and dedication she has demonstrated throughout her career. Her work has helped transform Chelmsford’s market portfolio, attract a diverse mix of traders and support professional development within the wider industry.
Pauline has also been a long-standing supporter of NABMA, regularly supporting our events and encouraging professional development within her team.
Geraldine Carter Award: Barnsley Markets Team
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Rachel Harban of Barnsley Market; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
The first ever Geraldine Carter Award was presented to Barnsley Markets Team.
Created in memory of former NABMA President Geraldine Carter, the award recognises the many qualities that contribute to a successful market operation, including teamwork, partnership, innovation and achievement.
Barnsley Markets Team was recognised for consistently demonstrating excellence in market management, customer service and trader engagement, as well as its role within a major regeneration programme.
Its work has helped create a vibrant, welcoming and commercially successful market environment, while supporting traders, attracting visitors and ensuring the markets remain firmly at the heart of the town centre.
Large Market Manager of the Year: Adele Thomas
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Adele Thomas of Chester Market; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Adele Thomas of Chester Market was named Large Market Manager of the Year.
Adele was recognised for outstanding leadership, commercial performance and her wider contribution to the markets industry. Chester Market continues to operate at 100% occupancy, with strong footfall, trader confidence and a collaborative culture helping to support its ongoing success.
The judges also highlighted Adele’s willingness to share her knowledge with market operators across the UK and Europe, host visits and provide the benefit of her experience to colleagues elsewhere in the sector.
Small Market Manager of the Year: Adam Nichols
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Adam Nichols of South Molton Pannier Market, Councillor Steven Hinchliffe; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Adam Nichols of South Molton Pannier Market received the award for Small Market Manager of the Year.
Although relatively new to market management, Adam has overseen significant improvements including enhanced facilities, improved digital connectivity, new fixtures, an outdoor market and additional trading opportunities for residents and community groups.
Above all, his leadership has helped restore a strong sense of community, respect and pride among traders, shoppers and the wider town.
Large Market Team of the Year: Camden Markets
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; Jenny Kurktchieva, Deborah Carpenter and Lorice Blake of the London Borough of Camden; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Camden Markets was named Large Market Team of the Year.
The small but highly ambitious team manages one of London’s most diverse market portfolios, including nine street markets, more than 50 kiosk and isolated trading sites and over 500 licensed traders.
Its work extends well beyond day-to-day operations, with a strong focus on regeneration, innovation, community engagement, supporting traders and securing external investment to improve markets across the borough.
The team was also recognised for the partnerships it has developed across council services, Business Improvement Districts, schools, community organisations, local businesses and traders.
Small Market Team of the Year: Edenbridge Town Council
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Guy Holden of Edenbridge Town Council; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Edenbridge Town Council received the Small Market Team of the Year award.
Since taking over management of the market in 2021, the team has delivered significant growth, increased trader numbers and introduced measures designed to make the market more accessible to both traders and visitors.
The team was particularly recognised for its hands-on and personal approach, support for start-ups and younger entrepreneurs, and the strong relationships it has built with its trader community.
Large Market Achievement Award: Bury Market
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; Max Mahon and Simon Green of Bury Council; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Bury Market received the Large Market Achievement Award following an ambitious 18-month, multi-million-pound regeneration programme.
The award recognised the extraordinary commitment, resilience and partnership demonstrated by the market team and traders as major construction work took place while the market remained operational.
Despite the scale of the challenge, Bury continued to attract significant visitor numbers and protect the livelihoods of hundreds of traders, while securing the long-term future of one of the UK’s best-known market destinations.
The project was recognised as a strong example of how major redevelopment can be delivered while protecting trade, footfall and the vitality of an established market.
Small Market Achievement Award: Wells City Council Market
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; Matt Johnson and The Right Worshipful, the Mayor of Wells, Councillor Denise Denis of Wells City Council; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Wells City Council Market was named winner of the Small Market Achievement Award.
The team successfully navigated the transfer of market operations through local government devolution, creating new systems, processes and ways of working while ensuring continuity for traders and customers.
Its flexibility, professionalism and commitment to positive trader relationships have helped the market emerge from a period of major organisational change stronger, more ambitious and better positioned to serve its community in the years ahead.
Trader Champion: Ade Adjilogba
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Ade Adjilogba of Hackney Markets; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.
Ade Adjilogba of Hackney Markets was named Trader Champion.
Ade was recognised for his practical and sustained work supporting the next generation of market traders and helping people progress from an initial idea to a market pitch, recognition and sustainable business growth.
His work has included playing a central role in trader development pathways, providing confidence, encouragement, constructive challenge and practical support to help traders take the next step in their businesses.
Ade has also supported numerous entrants through the NMTF Young Traders programme, helping develop category winners, regional finalists and national finalists.
His contribution demonstrates the importance of market professionals who not only support today’s trading environment but actively help build the traders and businesses of tomorrow.
Krys Zasada Award: Colin Wolstenholme
L-R: Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA, presents the Krys Zasada Award to Colin Wolstenholme of Bradford.
The evening concluded with NABMA’s highest annual honour, the Krys Zasada Award, presented to Colin Wolstenholme.
Colin has almost 50 years of experience in the markets industry and has made an enormous contribution at both local and national level.
As Markets Manager at Bradford, he recently oversaw the development and delivery of the new Darley Street Market as a focal point for the city centre. He has also served as long-time Chair of the NABMA Wholesale Forum, acted as a specialist adviser and contributed to major national research and surveys.
Throughout his career, Colin has freely shared his knowledge, supported professional development and demonstrated a consistent passion for professionally operated markets across the UK and beyond.
As Colin approaches retirement, the award recognises a lifetime of service, friendship and commitment to markets and market people. The Krys Zasada Award is kindly supported by Manchester City Council.
Highly Commended
NABMA also congratulates this year’s Highly Commended recipients:
Phil Byers
Muhammad Quasim
Leeds Market Team
Fleetwood Market
They were recognised for outstanding community impact, innovation, achievement and commitment to delivering high-quality market services.
NABMA extends its congratulations to every winner, recipient and nominee recognised during the evening.
We are also grateful to Zapp Outdoor for their generous sponsorship of the NABMA Market Awards 2026 and to Manchester City Council for their continued support of the Krys Zasada Award.
The Awards remain one of the highlights of our annual Conference and an important opportunity to celebrate the people whose dedication, professionalism and passion continue to strengthen markets and the communities they serve.
Full Citations for Each Winner:
The following are the full citations for each award winner, provided by NABMA Consultant David Preston. These citations can also be used as quotes by the winners for press releases:
Large Market Manager 2026: Adele Thomas of Chester Market “Adele has made a significant contribution to the wider markets industry. Openly and willingly sharing knowledge, hosting market visits from market operators across the UK and Europe, consulting on and advising other market developments, and providing the benefit of her experience to colleagues across the sector. Adele reflects outstanding leadership, commercial performance, community impact and sector wide contribution.”
Small Market Manager 2026: Adam Nichols of South Molton Panier Market “Without doubt the greatest achievement has been the positive culture that Adam has instilled. It is fair, approachable, supportive, and caring about both traders and shoppers. New leadership has restored a real sense of community, respect, and pride within the market”
Large Market Team of the Year 2026: Camden Markets “What truly sets the Camden Markets Team apart is the dedication of its team. It works collaboratively across council services, Business Improvement Districts, schools, community organisations, local businesses, and traders to deliver projects that create lasting benefits. It consistently demonstrates professionalism, creativity and a genuine commitment to the success of the Borough’s markets.”
Small Market Team of the Year 2026: Edenbridge Town Council “Edenbridge has a small Town Council team that took over management of the market in 2021 and has since delivered significant growth and real change. Trader numbers have increased significantly in that time. It now offers free parking, which removed a major barrier for visitors and traders and added electric vehicle charging points to support more sustainable travel. The market supports the social fabric of its community.”
Large Market Achievement: Bury Market “The Bury Market Team and its traders have demonstrated precisely what the NABMA Market Achievement Award seeks to recognise: excellence in market management, outstanding partnership working and a commitment to securing a sustainable future for traditional markets while preserving the communities they serve.”
Small Market Achievement: Wells City Council Market “At the heart of this achievement are the market traders and customers who bring life, character and vibrancy to the city each week. The Wells City Council Market team has worked tirelessly to build positive relationships with traders, recognising them as valued partners in the success of the markets and supporting them through a period of significant change and uncertainty.”
Market Champion: Ade Adjilogba “The outstanding nomination we received for Ade Adjilogba shows his respect for the tradition of markets, and the fact that he is helping bring through the people who will carry that tradition forward. That is what the future of market’s needs. It needs market professionals who do not just manage today’s trading environment but actively build tomorrows. Ade is helping build the future of markets, one young trader at a time.”
Kris Zasada Award 2026: Colin Wolstenholme “The markets industry will always be grateful for the manner in which Colin’s knowledge has been freely shared, professional development has been supported and the passion that he has consistently shown for shaping professionally operated markets both locally and across the UK and beyond.”
Geraldine Carter Award 2026: Barnsley Market “The Barnsley Market team has shown exceptional commitment to supporting traders, attracting visitors and delivering high-quality events and promotions that increase footfall and strengthen the local economy. Their proactive approach to trader relationships, combined with a strong focus on customer experience, has helped maintain a diverse and resilient market offer that reflects the needs of the community.”
The NABMA Market Awards 2026 showcase exceptional talent and dedication behind your local markets, and we are as always proud to celebrate the achievements of this year’s winners.
The All-Party Parliamentary Markets Group (APPMG) has launched a new strand of policy work examining the impact of weather forecasting on markets, visitor attractions and the wider outdoor economy, following engagement with leading national attractions, including Rob Comley and colleagues at Chester Zoo, tourism organisations, and representatives of the Met Office.
The issue was formally raised at the recent meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Market Group Meeting, where parliamentarians, market industry representatives and sector stakeholders considered growing evidence that inaccurate or overly simplified weather forecasts can significantly influence visitor behaviour, leading to reduced footfall, lost income and cancelled events.
The APPMG’s involvement follows work initiated by Chester Zoo, which has been bringing together visitor attractions, tourism bodies, government representatives and technology providers to examine the relationship between weather forecasting and consumer decision-making. In correspondence with NABMA, Chester Zoo highlighted ongoing discussions with the Met Office, DCMS and app developers and invited wider outdoor economy sectors to contribute evidence and support solutions.
Recognising that local markets face many of the same challenges as visitor attractions, NABMA brought the issue to parliament through the APPMG. Markets, outdoor traders, food festivals and community events remain highly dependent on public confidence in weather conditions. Even when adverse weather is forecast for only a small part of the day, simplified forecast summaries can often create the impression that an entire day will be unsuitable for outdoor activity.
During the APPMG discussion, members highlighted concerns that forecasting practices can unintentionally create economic consequences for markets, town centres and visitor destinations. The Group acknowledged that climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, making the accuracy and presentation of forecasts more important than ever for supporting economic resilience and protecting public confidence.
As a result of the discussion, the APPMG agreed to draft a letter to Ministers seeking greater attention to the issue. The proposed correspondence, supported by NABMA, the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) and the APPMG, calls for a review of how weather information is presented through digital platforms and mobile applications. It also seeks closer collaboration between the Met Office, government departments and outdoor economy sectors to ensure forecasting outputs better reflect real-world economic needs.
The APPMG’s position is not a challenge to the science behind weather forecasting. Instead, the Group is urging consideration of how forecasts are communicated to the public in an era where consumer decisions are increasingly shaped by simple weather icons and app notifications. Members believe that improving clarity and providing more granular information could help consumers make better-informed decisions while reducing unintended economic impacts on markets, tourism businesses and community events.
Parliamentary interest in the issue has been significant, with attendees joining the APPMG meeting specifically to contribute to this discussion before remaining for wider agenda items. Members agreed that the matter sits at the intersection of economic growth, climate resilience, high street vitality and support for small businesses.
Commenting on the initiative, the APPMG stated that: “Markets, visitor attractions and outdoor events all rely on public confidence. If people believe the weather will be poor all day, many simply stay at home. The APPMG recognises that forecasting plays an important role in public safety, but we also need to understand the wider economic implications of how that information is presented. Working alongside partners such as Chester Zoo, tourism organisations, the NMTF and parliamentarians gives us an opportunity to ensure that forecasting supports both public decision-making and economic resilience.”
The APPMG will continue working with stakeholders across the visitor economy, including attractions, tourism bodies, government departments and industry representatives, to develop recommendations that support both accurate forecasting and the long-term sustainability of Britain’s markets, events and visitor destinations.
With just 60 days to go until Love Your Local Market 2026, we are delighted to announce that this year’s campaign resources are now live.
Markets, partners and supporters can now access the 2026 campaign theme, digital assets, merchandise and the national map of participating markets on the official Love Your Local Market website.
This year’s campaign runs from Friday 15 May to Saturday 30 May 2026, celebrating the vital role markets play in communities across the UK and beyond.
Download Campaign Resources
Our free digital resources are now available to help you promote the campaign locally, including social media graphics and campaign branding.
It is with great sadness that we share the sudden loss of our colleague and friend, Ian Carmichael. Ian was instrumental in the creation and building of the Belfast Christmas Market into the success it has become.
In recent years, he enjoyed leading vibrant educational tours of the market for young visitors. Beyond his professionalism, impressive knowledge and management of markets, Ian was a wonderful friend to us all, and we will miss him dearly.
We extend our deepest sympathy, condolences and love to his wife Lynda, daughter Gemma, son-in-law Connor, extended family, and friends. May he rest in peace.
The Great British Market Awards 2026 were proudly presented as part of the NABMA One Day Conference, celebrating excellence, innovation and commitment across the UK markets sector.
This year’s awards attracted the largest number of nominations to date, reflecting the scale, quality and diversity of work being delivered by markets and market teams nationwide. Submissions highlighted the vital role markets play in supporting local communities, regeneration, entrepreneurship and tourism.
NABMA would like to thank everyone who submitted nominations, members of the public who voted, and the judging panel made up of some of the most experienced market professionals in the industry. Thanks also go to the National Market Traders Federation and Chief Executive Joe Harrison for their continued support, and to Market Place, headline sponsor of the 2026 Awards.
NABMA Life Membership
Before the presentation of awards, NABMA recognised outstanding service to the markets industry by conferring Honorary Life Membership on Colin Wolstenholme.
With 46 years of experience across local and national tiers of market management, Colin is one of the most respected professionals in the sector. His leadership has supported national research, policy development and best practice sharing, and he recently oversaw the delivery of the Darley Street Market in Bradford, now a major focal point of the city centre.
Highly Commended Markets
Three markets were recognised as Highly Commended, reflecting outstanding community impact, innovation and commitment to delivering high quality market services:
Stanley Park Market, Liverpool, recognised for its strong community role and commitment to quality market delivery.
Durham Indoor Market, praised for innovation and continued relevance at the heart of the city centre.
Seven Sisters Market, celebrated for its cultural impact and its importance to traders and local communities.
Great British Market Awards 2026 winners
Best Large Indoor Market
🏆 Barnsley Market
With nearly 800 years at the heart of its town centre, Barnsley Market has become a flagship regeneration project, combining a modern food hall, high occupancy levels and strong trader support. Its work with start-ups, young traders and public sector partners has positioned it as a market of national interest.
Best Small Indoor Market
🏆 Leek Butter and Trestle Market
A £3.4 million investment has transformed this historic market into a dynamic incubator for local enterprise, cultural activity and town centre footfall. Strong communication and collaboration between traders, officers and regeneration teams were central to its success.
Best Large Outdoor Market
🏆 Waterside Upmarket, Stratford-upon-Avon
Trading every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday, this market delivers a significant economic and social impact, attracting around 15,000 visitors each week. Its flexible trader policy, strong visitor appeal and support for national campaigns have helped it thrive for over 30 years.
Best Small Outdoor Market
🏆 Kendal Farmers’ Market
Known for its producer-only approach and quality-first ethos, Kendal Farmers’ Market supports local farmers and food producers while acting as a launchpad for sustainable small businesses. Its strong educational links and community value set it apart.
Best Community or Local Council Market
🏆 Shrewsbury Market
Often described as “a proper market”, Shrewsbury Market continues to evolve while retaining its unique identity. With 100% occupancy, strong partnerships and a reputation as a business incubator, it remains the beating heart of its town centre.
Best Large Speciality Market
🏆 Bolton Food and Drink Festival
Regarded as one of the leading food and drink festivals in the UK and internationally, this event attracts over half a million visitors across four days. Curated by the Markets Team, it sets a national benchmark for scale, quality and social value.
Best Small Speciality Market
🏆 Mossley Farmers’ Market
Established through community determination, this monthly market has exceeded all expectations since launching in 2025. Growing from 10 to 40 traders, it has successfully restored market town status and become one of the borough’s most successful markets.
Best Wholesale Market
🏆 New Covent Garden Market
Home to 180 businesses with a combined turnover approaching £1 billion, New Covent Garden Market blends 800 years of history with a clear vision for the future. Ongoing redevelopment will see it become both the UK’s oldest and newest wholesale market by 2028.
Best Food Market
🏆 Bradford Darley Street Market
A bold, modern food destination at the centre of a £32 million regeneration project, Darley Street Market blends traditional market values with contemporary design. Open seven days a week, it has become a major destination for food, culture and community life.
Best Market Attraction (Joint Winners)
🏆 Smithfield Market Christmas Eve Meat Auction 🏆 Columbia Road Flower Market
The Smithfield Christmas Eve Meat Auction was recognised for its 50-year history and its unique ability to combine tradition, theatre and economic impact. Columbia Road Flower Market was celebrated as a global attraction and a weekly spectacle, drawing visitors from around the world while supporting local traders and businesses.
Britain’s Favourite Market 2026
🏆 South Molton Pannier Market
Voted for by the public, South Molton Pannier Market was recognised for its outstanding traders, 100% occupancy and deep community pride. Twice-weekly market days continue to drive footfall, support local charities and strengthen the town’s local economy.
Celebrating excellence across the sector
The Great British Market Awards 2026 showcased the diversity, resilience and innovation found across the UK markets sector. From historic charter markets to large scale events and community-led initiatives, the winners demonstrate the vital role markets continue to play in towns and cities.
NABMA congratulates all winners, highly commended markets and nominees, and thanks everyone involved in making the 2026 Awards a celebration of excellence across the industry.
South Molton Pannier Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Smithfield Market Christmas Eve Meat Auction.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
New Covent Garden Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Kendal Farmers’ Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Mossley Farmers’ Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Columbia Road Flower Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Leek Butter and Trestle Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Shrewsbury Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Waterside Upmarket.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Barnsley Market.
From left to right: Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, MP Julia Buckley, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
Seven Sisters Market.
From left to right: MP Julia Buckley, Market Place Europe Operations Manager Andy Pidgen, NABMA President Councillor Chris Poulter
With approaching 800 years at the heart of its town centre, this market is now a focus of a multimillion regeneration project with a new look that importantly incorporates that proud and long history of both the town and market. It boasts 140 stalls with 96% capacity and a 500 plus capacity food hall. It works with a government funded programme to provide support for startups and fledgling businesses. Young traders have been attracted from the Prince’s Trust, and it delivers a monthly young trader market with strong partnership from the local college.
The Markets Team work hard to support traders, being visible and creating a culture of honesty and transparency with effective communication channels. Social media is powerful, successful and the market regularly features on TV and Radio.
The market hosts live events, supports council and NHS initiatives and accommodates a family hub that provides a range of services to support family well being and development.
This is clearly a new market of great national interest with many peers visiting to see its thriving role in the town centre and to engage in detailed discussions on its operations, compliance and communication.
Best Small Indoor Market – Leek Butter and Trestle Market
This story is of two combined Victorian Markets, a Charter going back to 1207, with permanent and tabletop stalls, that were underused, reliant on subsidies and disconnected from younger generations. A far too often familiar story. In 2023 they became a focus of a £17 million Levelling Up Fund investment that sought to deliver a transformative regeneration programme for this tourist hub and its town centre. The Market was a cornerstone of the programme due to its potential to reinvigorate a historic asset and stimulate economic growth. The bold vision was about refurbishment, installation of new food units, restoring Victorian shopfronts and creating flexible retail spaces.
The investment has now reimagined the market as a dynamic incubator for local entrepreneurship; a destination for cultural experiences and a footfall driver for the town centre whilst still celebrating a proud heritage. Strong communication, excellent trader relationships and interaction with both market officers and regeneration leaders have created an open and transparent environment, breaking down barriers, and demonstrating a united commitment in recognising the important role a successful market plays in the town, and as a focal point for its widest community.
Best Large Outdoor Market – Waterside Upmarket (Stratford upon Avon)
This is a market that recently celebrated its 30-year anniversary; it trades every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from March to December, blending high-quality artisan retail with the unique charm of a world-renowned heritage and tourist destination.
It delivers a significant economic and social boost with an average of 15,000 visitors every Sunday and a total economic impact of £15–20 million a year. The weekly influx of footfall strengthens the vitality of the high street, increases trade for local businesses, and reinforces its town’s reputation as a vibrant destination. The market also generates around 1.5 million person-hours of community activity each year, enhancing social wellbeing, visitor experience, and the overall attractiveness of the town centre. A trader policy offers flexibility that has boosted trader satisfaction and contributed to a more diverse and dynamic market. Countless businesses have been launched at the market, and it is an avid supporter and venue for national campaigns such as the National Young Traders Market and Love Your Local Market. This is not just a market – it’s a celebration of local talent, entrepreneurship, and community spirit that continues to evolve and thrive after three remarkable decades.
Best Small Outdoor Market – Kendal Farmers’ Market
This long-standing, award-winning, trader managed market, has a strict producer only criteria prioritising farmers and producers within 30 miles to ensure authenticity and product diversity linked to a quality first policy. This is a major draw for new traders seeking to join a market with a strong reputation and a loyal customer base. New traders have a highly supportive onboarding process of guidance, dealing with legislation and paperwork, displays and promotions. It is a launchpad for sustainable local enterprise with a reputation of attracting early-stage businesses and helping them to grow into confident, viable entities. The market delivers substantial community value; is a meeting point and provides constant cross shopping between market and high street businesses. Importantly it works extensively with education providers to nurture the next generation of food producers, farmers and entrepreneurs. It is proud to operate as a 100% self-funded entity, demonstrating both resilience and good financial stewardship.
This is a unique and much-loved cornerstone of its local food landscape. A place were authenticity, community and exceptional local produce come together in a way that perhaps few markets can achieve. Year on year it gives an integrity and transparency to local food that its community deeply values.
Best Community/Parish Market – Shrewsbury Market
This is a market that is an example of changing with the times, reinventing itself and always remaining as the beating heart of its local community. It is known locally as a unique food and drink and shopping destination that offers a vibrant and eclectic fusion of the hand crafted and the hard to find. It has over 60 traders and is a market located in a building of architectural interest. Regardless of numerous awards it continues to evolve with fresh ideas, collaborations and new innovations whilst retaining its distinctive identity, commonly described by regulars and visitors as “a proper market”. It is regarded as a unique community rather than just a place to shop, eat or drink. It enjoys 100% occupancy, a huge demand for stalls; it recently celebrated its 60th anniversary and is a proven incubator for business startups. Partnerships are key to its many successes working with town centre management, charities and local organisations. Last year a national feature on Britain’s most perfect market towns highlighted the most important contributor to the towns as featured was a thriving market – and this market was rated as the best.
Best Large Speciality Market – Bolton Food and Drink Festival
This is a Food and Drink Festival regarded as one of the very best in the UK, and internationally. The town centre is transformed into a multi zone food, culture and education zone. Curated and delivered by the Markets Team the Festival hosts 200 plus specialist traders; world renowned celebrity chefs and last year attracted over 550,000 across 4 days. The event sets a national benchmark for large scale speciality markets.
The Markets Team lead all aspects of delivery, recruitment, compliance, design and the operational management. The many partnerships ensure the highest of standards, strong community engagement and economic benefits. The festival delivers strong social value through the government Holiday Activities and Food Programme enabling children and families most in need to purchase food directly from traders, ensuring dignity of choice and guaranteed traders income.
This festival embeds social values; unites the whole town within a connected event and is an ambassador and leader for the future of speciality markets in the UK.
Best Small Speciality Market – Mossley Farmers’ Market
This is a market that only exists due to an unbreakable community spirit. Despite the loss of the town’s original market some 15 years previous, the local authority and community agreed a simple mission – to return a market to the town. This one Sunday a month market therefore began in July 2025, but support, partnerships and attendance have far surpassed expectations. What started as a five-month trial is now one of the most successful markets in the Borough. The original 10 stall market, located on a car park close to the town centre, now hosts 40 traders with the overarching priority to support local business. The trader base has a range of specialisms and a few local mobile caterers, and for some it is their first venture into markets.
The market is an ever-growing good news story, becoming one of the most successful markets in the Borough, and importantly ensuring that market town status as now been firmly returned.
Best Wholesale Market – New Covent Garden Market
Home to 180 businesses, this market continues to innovate as part of its ongoing multi-million-pound redevelopment. It is a hub for world class fruit, vegetables and flowers serving London and the Southeast. It has 800 years of history but a clear vision for its future. Its diverse mix of tenants have a combined annual turnover of around £944 million and employ in excess of 2,500 people. The market thrives through successful partnerships and sponsorship, and it gives back to the community with over £100,000 raised by the Tenants Association in the last 12 months.
The market is home to the Food Exchange and Mission Kitchen. They attract a mix of entrepreneurial food businesses and provide a place where startups share commercial kitchens and working spaces on their way to becoming the next generation of food industry leaders.
In 2028, this market will be both the UK’s oldest and newest wholesale market with redevelopment and regeneration programmes creating a market fit to serve independent retail and catering sectors for decades to come.
Best Food Market – Bradford Darley Street Market
This is a city centre market that is a bold and transformative food destination, located across three floors and open 7 days a week. It is the centre piece of a £32million regeneration project replacing two outdated markets with a modern, inclusive and vibrant space. It includes a roof terrace, performance stage and digital screens blending traditional market values with contemporary urban design. It offers affordable high quality food options and a welcoming environment for families, students and visitors. The layout ensures a seamless experience from shopping to dining to entertainment. This is a market not just to buy food; it is a destination, a community space and a beacon of local ambition. It shouts out loud about innovation, diversity, quality and heart.
Best Market Attraction
This is a shared award in 2026 for two very different market activities
AWARD 1 – Smithfield Market Christmas Eve Meat Auction
This is a nationally recognised event, and a Christmas Eve Meat Auction that began 50 years ago. From an exercise by one merchant to clear excess stock it has morphed into a festive event that thousands of Christmas revellers highlight into holiday calendars. Owing to the ever-growing popularity of the event, and the weeks needed to organise, a professional company now help deliver the auction supported with grant funding. The collaboration of partners ensures that the management team and merchants are equally invested in achieving a common goal that has wider year around operational benefits.
The merchants of the market supply many of London’s finest restaurants, butchers, retail traders and suppliers and it is the surplus of these quality meat products that drive huge footfall year on year. With uncertainty over the future of this market the local management team and Traders Association use the event as a massive opportunity to remind customers that the market continues to thrive and, as necessary, adapts to the world around it.
AWARD 2 – Columbia Road Flower Market
This is a market established in 1869 that attracts customers from around the world. It is a major visitor attraction and a staple of its community that also significantly benefits the local shops and the economy. It is a Sunday market with a one million footfall each year and a diversity of trade. It has family businesses passing down to 4th and fifth generations. The trader demand epitomises the markets uniqueness. A trader own website and extensive local council social media ensuring that this is an iconic attraction and the place to go to every Sunday morning. The council have partnered with the neighbouring borough to introduce zero emission network initiatives of delivery of products through cargo bikes from market traders and local business. The market has excellent management, is a true partnership between operator and its traders and a good place to be each Sunday. This has been described as not just a market – but a spectacle.
Britain’s Favourite Market – South Molton Pannier Market
Since the launch of the 2026 online voting we have published regular updates as week by week the votes came in. When voting closed before Christmas thousands of votes had been recorded across hundreds of markets.
Year on year this competition demonstrates the value and pride that towns and cities place in their local market and the innovation and diversity that applies in modern market management. Our voting demonstrates a trust, pride and a recognition of a markets importance within the day-to-day life of their communities. For 2026 a majority of votes cast recognise a twice a week market with 100% occupancy. The market is unrivalled and the quality and variety of its produce and businesses within the local area is constantly held up as an example of what a successful traditional market should offer. Retention of traders has been outstanding, and a long waiting list of local businesses now wish to trade which has led to the creation of specialist markets, including popular food festivals. This market is seen as the heart of its community. It plays an integral part in the success of local businesses in the town. The market supports many local charities as well as smaller community groups and schools. Footfall has increased year on year, and market days are a hub of activity and promote a positive local shopping experience.
It is with great sadness that NABMA received the news late last night of the passing of Councillor Geraldine Carter after an illness that she bravely fought.
Geraldine was our Past President and the Deputy Mayor of Calderdale. Over many years she represented her council on many local, regional, and national bodies.
Geraldine was also an unsung volunteer with many of her local community groups always willing to help, offer advice and share her talents for art, craft, and floral decorations.
Within NABMA Geraldine has played a leading role over many years as our President, within the Presidency Team and the Board of Directors helping to make NABMA the respected organisation that is today and fulfilling our vision to be the voice of markets in the UK and beyond.
Geraldine represented NABMA over many years at home and overseas and was a well-known and popular face at our many events and conferences. Within the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) she was also a respected and valued member making many friends for NABMA and market people back in the UK.
Loyalty, passion and common sense were just an important few of her many attributes. Life was never dull with Geraldine in the room. All the NABMA team will fondly remember the many hours we were fortunate to share in her company. We will all miss her greatly.
Without any doubt the most precious gift for Geraldine was her family. At this most sad time we send our deepest condolences to Brian and all her family and friends.
NABMA will always remember Geraldine as a real old style community champion and a wonderful ambassador for markets. Her contribution to NABMA over many years will, and should never be forgotten.
NABMA will update on funeral arrangements when finalised.
NABMA welcomes the measures set out in the Autumn Budget, which provide significant opportunities for the market sector to access funding for skills development and regeneration. The Government’s commitment to investing in people and places is clear, with several initiatives that can directly benefit markets and their communities.
Key announcements include:
£1.5 billion over the next three years for the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy, designed to help young people earn or learn through apprenticeships and training programmes. This funding can support market operators and Young trader initiatives in upskilling and attracting new talent into the industry.
Free apprenticeships for under-25s in SMEs, which will help address critical skills gaps and bolster small businesses, including independent market traders and private sector operators.
Devolution of £13 billion in flexible funding to mayoral authorities for skills, business support, and infrastructure, creating opportunities for Markets and Market Partnerships to engage with local leaders and secure investment for regeneration and growth.
These measures reflect the growing recognition of markets as vital contributors to local economies and community life. Skills development is essential for ensuring that markets remain resilient and competitive in the face of changing consumer behaviours, digital transformation, and sustainability challenges.
NABMA is at the forefront of championing markets within Government, advocating for policies that acknowledge their economic and social value. We will continue to work closely with policymakers and local authorities to ensure that these funding streams are accessible, add value and deliver tangible benefits for our members.
This Budget represents an important opportunity for collaborative action. NABMA remains committed to supporting its members in navigating these developments and ensuring that markets play a central role in the Government’s wider agenda for skills, growth, and regeneration.
The National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of David Catterall DL as its new Consultant Chief Executive from 1st January 2026.
David brings more than twenty years of experience in local government, with senior roles in market management, regeneration and place-making. His work has focused on supporting communities, driving innovation in the markets sector and championing the vital role markets play in strengthening local economies. He remains committed to raising the profile of markets nationwide and helping to secure their long-term future.
As part of this transition, NABMA confirms that David Preston, who has led the organisation since 2019, will continue to support the association in his new role as Deputy Chief Executive. Alongside him, Graham Wilson will also continue in post. Their combined knowledge and longstanding involvement ensure continuity and stability as NABMA enters its next chapter.
Commenting on his appointment, David Catterall said: “I am honoured to become Consultant Chief Executive at NABMA. It is a privilege to follow David Preston, whose leadership has played such an important part in shaping the organisation. I am pleased that both David and Graham Wilson will continue in their roles, offering invaluable continuity and support as we take NABMA forward together.”
NABMA President, Chris Poulter, said: “David Catterall brings a strong track record of leadership and a deep understanding of the markets sector. His appointment comes at an important moment for NABMA, and with David Preston and Graham Wilson continuing to provide their expertise, the organisation is in a strong position. We look forward to working with David as he leads NABMA into the future.”
David’s appointment marks an exciting new phase for NABMA as it continues to champion the vital role of markets across the UK.
We’re thrilled to announce that over 10,000 votes have already been cast for Britain’s Favourite Market 2026 – part of the prestigious Great British Market Awards, proudly sponsored by Market Place.
