Traders 'priced out' of £12,000 Christmas market pitches
Summary
Traders say high stall fees have priced them out of Liverpool’s Christmas market after Underbelly took over its operation. Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson said the council knew the operator’s price structure and would consider options for future markets.Key Facts
- Anthony Grice said he was quoted £12,000 for a stall selling hot chocolate and cakes.
- Jeweller Alex Healy said the smallest hut would cost her about £14,000 to £15,000, so she will not return this year.
- Healy has traded at previous Liverpool Christmas markets since 2021.
- Robinson said he met business owners to hear their concerns and invited Healy to discuss possible support.
- Robinson said Underbelly won the contract based on quality and price and had experience running markets elsewhere.
- The council said local traders can sell goods at Saturday markets on Basnett Street in November and at markets in Lark Lane and Woolton Village before Christmas.
- Liberal Democrat opposition leader Carl Cashman said the fees pose too much of a risk for small businesses.
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