There were around 280 street and covered markets in operation across London in 2017 – a rise from 163 mapped in 2010 [1].
Much of the recent growth in London’s street market scene has been attributed to farmers’ markets and those run by commercial operators, which often serve Londoners on higher incomes.
This raises questions about how traditional markets serving those on lower incomes are faring in the current climate, with challenges including shifts in shopping patterns and competition from discount retailers, supermarkets, and the internet.
Lambeth Council’s 2018 Brixton Street Market Masterplan & Action Plan noted that the street market – which serves residents on lower incomes - is “surviving rather than thriving” [2].
The London Assembly Economy Committee will meet tomorrow to examine the challenges and opportunities facing London’s street markets and the support they need from national, regional, and local government.
The guests are:
- Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills (and Co-Chair of the London Markets Board)
- David Preston, Chief Executive, National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA)
- Joe Harrison, Chief Executive, National Market Traders Federation (NMTF)
- Nicholas Kasic, Markets Manager, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Chair of Association of London Markets
The meeting will take place on Wednesday, 18 May from 10am, in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.
Media and members of the public are invited to attend.
The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.
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Notes to editors
- Understanding London’s Markets, Mayor of London, 2017
- Brixton Street Market Masterplan & Action Plan 2018-2023, Lambeth Council
- Full agenda papers.
- Hina Bokhari AM, Chair of the Economy Committee, is available for interview.
- Find out more about the work of the Economy Committee.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For more information, please contact Emma Bowden in the Assembly Media Office on 07849 303897. For out of hours media enquiries please call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer.