Big Local Works, in partnership with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF), is proud to host Young Traders Market at The Blue Market in Bermondsey in 2026. These events will take place on selected Saturdays between March and July
What is Young Traders Market?
The project, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, aims to support new aspiring market traders by providing unique, real-life trading opportunities at our town centre market as well as access to business skills training and networking events.
The Young Traders Markets offer a unique platform for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 16–30 to showcase their talents and goods to the public, test their business ideas, and gain hands-on experience in a market environment.
We have successfully run this project for the past 2 years, and have seen more than 40 young entrepreneurs take part. This year each market event will offer up to six free stalls. Selected traders will receive a pitch, table, and gazebo at no cost, removing common barriers to entry and allowing them to focus on developing their business, building confidence, and engaging with new customers.
These events offer an opportunity for visitors to discover unique local items, support emerging entrepreneurs and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Bermondsey’s local market.
In addition to the market days, Big Local Works will host regular networking events open to young traders, market operators, and partner organisations.
It’s free to take part!
Yes, participants in the Young Traders Market at The Blue Market won’t pay anything. If accepted, traders will get:
A gazebo & table to trade
An unique opportunity
New experiences
- Register to take part in our Young Traders Market events
- Participants will get a free pitch, gazebo and 6ft table at The Blue Market
- Traders will be judged on the day by a panel of local stakeholders on their products, customer service skills, professionalism, and how they interacted with the other market traders.
- Each event will have one winner who will progress to the regional final taking place in London in the summer of 2026 (Venue and date to be announced).
Young Traders Market dates at The Blue Market
There will be one Winner and several Highly Commended awards per event. Young Traders Market will take place on the following dates:
- Saturday, 7th March
- Saturday, 11th April
- Saturday, 9th May
- Saturday, 6th June
- Saturday, 4th July
Winners in each event will be offered to take part in the 2026 regional final for London and the South East (Date and venue to be announced)
For more information about the competition, visit NMTF website here
What are the requirements to take part?
- You must be over 16 and should not be 31 by the date of the national final (to be announce soon.)
- Traders must have Public Liability Insurance. If you don’t, we can offer free insurance subject to eligibility
- Photo ID and proof of address required
- Food traders must have Food Hygiene Certificate Level 2 minimum and comply with all the food legislation.
- If you would like to see the judging criteria, we have a guide that you can access here.
“We love markets for the low cost / low risk opportunity they provide for local young entrepreneurs to try and test their business ideas. The YTMs provide some of the most exciting and vibrant days here at the Blue and we welcome all young traders to join us here on their journey to business success”
Luds Van Den Belt, Manager of Big Local Works
How do I apply?
Questions? Get in touch
If you still have questions about Young Traders Market, get in touch by email at info@thebluemarket.co.uk , subject: Young Traders Market Query