Newark Artisan Market set to return to Buttermarket this year
Despite rumours of a town’s artisan market closing doors, it is set to return bigger and better than ever under new management.
Newark’s pop-up artisan market inside the Buttermarket will continue under the management of Lisa Ridgway and Alison Booth, both stall holders who have taken part in the previous Artisan Plus Pop-Up Market.
As the former manager left the role, there were concerns in the town that the market would close.
But the duo have decided to step up and work together with the hope of bringing some life into the town centre.
It is set to include approximately 20 stalls downstairs including two side rooms when available and the upper floor will accommodate an additional 20 to 30 stalls.
The stalls will offer a range of crafts, varying from wax melts or candles, stationery, ceramics, and skincare to acrylics, pottery, glasswork, woodwork and fabric work.
Lisa, owner of Honey Hole Pet Emporium, said: “I always like to have a challenge.
“I'm pretty good at time management, I also intend to have a stall there when it's convenient for me because obviously, I have another job.”
From previous experience, Lisa realised that a lot of people weren’t aware of the artisan market as they seemed surprised to bump into the stalls in the Buttermarket.
She is aiming to work together with the council and stall holders to increase advertising and communication so that the artisan market and its businesses can thrive.
“People can't afford shops as much as there are loads of empty shops around Newark,” Lisa added, “We just can't afford the rent, the rates, the council tax and things like that, so, we need another means of getting our businesses out there.
“If you don't use it, we will end up losing it and then it will become a derelict town, which is not what we want.
“I've seen things change since I moved here six years ago and I have seen the decline in the town and it is such a shame to see because it is a lovely town.
“Newark has a lot to offer, but the cost of living and prices and the tightness that the government have on councils and what they can and can't do, it has a knock-on effect and it doesn't just knock on to the council, it knocks on to the people that live there.”
The date for the first monthly artisan market of the year is yet to be confirmed as the duo is waiting for the council to confirm the dates they have submitted, but they are hoping to start in March.
They are looking for stall holder who are interested in selling their handmade crafts. Those interested in taking part can email Lisa at ridgway2310@aol.co.uk or contact them through the Facebook page — Artisan Plus Pop Up Market.
