On Saturday 27th May, Newquay successfully trialled its very own quality street market. Shoppers came out in their droves to purchase, browse and simply soak up the atmosphere of the buzzing market. Organised by Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) in collaboration with Cornwall Shop Small and Newquay Farmer’s Market, the ‘Newquay Shop Small Market’ ran from 10.00am – 4.00pm stretching from the Old Bank Square Piazza which formed the Streetfood Quarter, The Mini Market along Bank Street and the brilliant Beachside Bazaar spread across the seafront at the Killacourt.
Brimming with wonderful wares from local makers, producers and curators there was something for everyone. From contemporary crafts, artisan makes, local lifestyle inspiration and delicious food and drink. The sunny Saturday saw over 50 stalls alongside live music and many innovative market specials from local resident businesses.
The entertainment was electric as the traders very successfully peddled their wares – midday on Bank Street saw some happy jazz funk bass action from local legend Dr Funk, from 12.00pm, visitors found Shoey at the bandstand on the Killacourt soundtracking the afternoon with a vinyl set of relaxed tunes and from 2.00pm Joe Hurworth was playing some soulful songs and sounds on Bank Street.
Newquay BID is in the process of collating business feedback following the event but it is expected to continue working with Cornwall Shop Small and Newquay Farmers Market to bring the destination market to the vibrant streets of Newquay on a more regular basis (outside of peak holiday seasons).
Newquay BID Manager Mark Warren says, “What a day for Newquay, it was truly incredible. So many people came out to support the market, including locals and visitors. The sun shone and the atmosphere was wonderful. The feedback so far as been overwhelmingly positive and just as we intended, the market successfully embellished the trading landscape of the town.”
Sarah Curley of Cornwall Shop Small said, “We would like to say the biggest thank you to everyone who came and supported local over the weekend at the first Newquay Shop Small Market – it was amazing. Thank you to our 50 traders who brought it with their amazing wares, mind-blowing talent and beautiful smiles. Thank you to everyone who entertained us from juggling shows and circus skills to tunes and soulful sounds. We would also like to thank Mark at Newquay BID for bringing us to the town, his hard work and endless enthusiasm.”
Caroline Hinks of Newquay Farmer’s Market said, “Thanks also to the Town Council for their support and to all the local businesses that gave us a warm welcome – we’re so thankful to you and know that we’re all stronger together. We are gathering feedback along with the BID team in the next couple of weeks ready to share our plans for the future of the Newquay Shop Small Market soon.”
Helene LeBlanc of Kook Café in the heart of Newquay said, “Newquay’s first Market was amazing and it really boosted trade for us, bringing people to the town and creating an incredible atmosphere. Visitors and locals were in really high spirits, enjoying the sun, the entertainment and singing along to the brilliant live music that was being performed outside of the Central Inn. It brought a really positive vibe to the town as well as significant footfall. I would certainly welcome its return on a more regular basis.”
Alan Richards of The Cornish Oven said, “The new Newquay Market had a really positive impact on our Bank Street pasty shop, it was fantastic. Our lovely Newquay team were enjoying being out on the street providing samples of some of our products and handing out leaflets with The Cornish Oven offers and promotions throughout the day. There was a really brilliant atmosphere and by all accounts, it was a great driver of business for the town as a whole. We hope it becomes a more regular feature in Newquay.”
For more information about Newquay’s market and future plans or to provide your feedback, email Newquay BID Manager, Mark Warren at: mark.warren@newquaybid.co.uk. For further information on Cornwall Shop Small visit www.facebook.com/cornwallshopsmall.
