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The Award-Winning Belfast Christmas Market Welcomes Special Guests to Celebrate 20 Years

by News

The Belfast Christmas Market, a jewel of the city’s festive calendar, proudly celebrates 20 years of bringing Christmas magic to life. The award-winning market has become a vital part of Belfast’s cultural and economic landscape, attracting visitors from near and far and creating a memorable experience for all who attend.

On 28 November, NABMA (National Association of British Market Authorities) President Chris Poulter and Immediate Past President, Mick Barker joined Belfast’s Lord Mayor Micky Murray for a special visit to the market. Their presence celebrated the market’s outstanding success and its importance as a driver of community spirit and economic vitality.

NABMA President Chris Poulter said:
‘NABMA have been lucky enough to visit the wonder Belfast Christmas Market several times over the last number of years, during which the diversity and quality of product range never ceases to amaze us. As a previous multiple winner of Britain’s Best Speciality Market, it comes as no surprise that this market just gets better and better every year.’

The market’s impact on Belfast is nothing short of extraordinary. Each year, it draws an incredible 1.2 million visitors, who come to enjoy its unique blend of international and local offerings. This influx of visitors translates into a massive economic boost for the city, with an estimated £60 million generated annually. Hotels, restaurants, and local shops benefit greatly from the market’s popularity, making it a cornerstone of Belfast’s seasonal economy. Operators Market Place,  ensure price points are within reason and that visitors experience value for money.

This year’s market village of 106 wooden chalets continues to wow with its diverse range of products from 32 countries, offering everything from mouthwatering German bratwurst to intricate handmade ornaments. Local talent shines just as brightly, with contributions from iconic St George’s Market traders and Haus of Hank, the winner of the Jolly Big Business Boost young entrepreneur’s competition, showcasing beautifully crafted dog harnesses and accessories.

Beyond its economic contributions, the market fosters community engagement and education. Thousands of children have enjoyed the free educational tours and the fun-filled Educational Passport workbook, enriching their understanding of cultural traditions and the value of diversity.

Adding to this year’s festivities is the partnership with local charity Kids Together Belfast, who are operating Santa’s Grotto. All proceeds from the grotto will directly support the charity’s invaluable work with children with disabilities and their families, making every visit to Santa a gift to the community.

As the Belfast Christmas Market celebrates 20 years, it stands as a testament to the power of tradition, community, and economic growth. Whether you’re savouring global flavours, discovering unique gifts, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Belfast Christmas Market promises an unforgettable experience while driving substantial benefits for the city of Belfast.

Come and be part of the celebration—where magic meets meaningful impact, and the heart of the season shines brightest.

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Nominations Now Open for the Great British Market Awards 2025

by GBMANews

The heart of the United Kingdom’s communities beats through its markets, where local traditions, commerce, and culture converge. In the spirit of celebrating and promoting excellence in markets across cities, towns, and local communities all over the UK, the Great British Market Awards 2025 is now open for nominations. We are also proud to announce details of the voting process for Britain’s Favourite Market.

This prestigious event, organised and awarded by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) and proudly sponsored by Market Place, is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of market operators, traders, and the communities they serve.

Nominations are open now and will continue until midnight on Friday, 13th December 2024. We invite market operators to participate by nominating their markets and showcasing what makes them extraordinary. Whether it’s the bustling atmosphere of a large outdoor market or the charm of a small indoor market, there are numerous categories to choose from:

  • Best Large Indoor Market
  • Best Small Indoor Market
  • Best Large Outdoor Market
  • Best Small Outdoor Market
  • Best Community or Parish Market
  • Best Large Speciality Market
  • Best Small Speciality Market
  • Best Wholesale Market
  • Best Food Market
  • Best Market Attraction

The process is straightforward: choose a category, fill out a separate form for each market and category you wish to nominate, and submit your entry before the 13th December deadline.

Nomination Form

Nominations for Best Speciality Market and Best Market Attraction will remain open until midnight on Friday, 3rd January 2025. This extension allows Christmas Market entries to compete in these categories.

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Britain’s Favourite Market – How to Vote

The vote for “Britain’s Favourite Market” is set to launch at 12 noon on Thursday, 31st October, 2024. This annual initiative, an integral part of the Great British Market Awards, calls upon market operators, traders, and the general public to nominate and vote for their most beloved markets.

One key message is clear – any market can emerge victorious in this competition. The final winner will be selected from the shortlist, and the evaluation process may involve mystery shops and quality assessments by the judging panel. The essence of “Britain’s Favourite Market” is deeply rooted in the experiences of the people who visit these markets and the dedication of the traders who make them special.

Voting for “Britain’s Favourite Market” ends at midnight on Friday 13th December 2024.

The link to vote for Britain’s Favourite Market is:
https://nabma.com/MyFavouriteMarket2025/

Let’s play fair! Individuals are allowed to vote once per day.

NABMA reserve the right to remove votes received in rapid succession from the same IP address or other non-genuine / block votes at our own discretion, so please respect the “one a day rule”. We may contact a market if we identify unusual voting patterns. Online voting will be the major contributor in deciding the winner but to ensure credibility then other checks may take place. Please note that we do record your IP address with your vote for this purpose. Thank You!

Market Awards 2024-Web

NABMA is delighted to launch its industry awards for 2024

by News

NABMA is pleased to launch its industry awards for 2024. We want to promote what is best in the industry and we want your help to identify

• Market Manager of the Year
• Market Team of the Year
• Market Achievement of the Year
• Young Market Champion of the Year

Once again, we thank Blachere Illumination for their support and generous sponsorship of the awards.

We are aware of some wonderful stories from the industry that are deserving of nominations. You can nominate yourself or promote a particular initiative that you have become involved in. We want to recognise achievement and highlight the dedicated and innovative people that work in our industry day to day.

In 2024, with the difficult times that the high street and many markets are facing, linked to the problems of local government finance, then it is important to shout out loud about markets and market people, and the immense contribution that they make to local communities.

Closing date is 31 August. We look forward to receiving your nominations. Details are on the attached flyer and nominations can now be sent to info@nabma.com

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Zapp Continues to Add “Zip” to Love Your Local Market in 2024!

by LYLMNews

NABMA Proudly Announces Zapp’s Renewed Sponsorship for the Love Your Local Market Campaign, Marking the Fourth Consecutive Year of Collaboration.

NABMA, the driving force behind the UK’s beloved Love Your Local Market Campaign, is excited to declare that Zapp will continue as the major sponsor for the fourth consecutive year.

Zapp, renowned for its market stalls and accessories crafted from over three decades of market expertise, has been a steadfast supporter, offering a comprehensive range of market essentials including umbrellas, folding tables, and support systems.

“The Love Your Local Market Campaign is set to soar to new heights with Zapp’s unwavering support,” remarked David Preston, Chief Executive of NABMA. “Their commitment enhances our efforts to entice fresh traders and reignite consumer interest in local markets.”

Scheduled from Friday 17th May to Saturday 1st June 2024, this year’s campaign bears the theme “Celebrating Local Markets”. With Zapp’s backing, NABMA anticipates another year of record-breaking engagement and nationwide participation.

“We take immense pride in extending our partnership with the Love Your Local Market Campaign,” stated Mark Parry, Head of Zapp. “As stalwarts in the market industry, we eagerly anticipate contributing to the campaign’s success, fostering innovation, and welcoming new traders.”

About Love Your Local Market 2024:

Join the celebration of this year’s LOVE YOUR LOCAL MARKET campaign, hosted by the National Association of British Market Authorities.

Running from Friday 17th May to Saturday 1st June 2024, #LYLM2024 invites markets nationwide to attract fresh traders and underscore the vital role of markets within local communities.

Now in its 13th year, the Love Your Local Market Campaign has garnered global recognition, celebrated in over 24 countries. Market events, promotions, and special offers abound during the campaign period, encouraging all to explore their local markets.

For more information about the Love Your Local Market Campaign, visit the official website: loveyourlocalmarket.nabma.com.

Discover Zapp’s exceptional products and commitment to market excellence by visiting their website: zappumbrellas.com.