Dudley Market on the up as number of traders rockets
The number of traders at Dudley Market has rocketed by 60 per cent since a controversial takeover last year.
New figures show more than 1,000 stalls were sold on the town centre market in June – up by 400 in the space of a year.
There had been fears the takeover by Tudor Markets could put the market’s future at risk but the move appears to have had the opposite impact.
The increase in interest is a major shot in the arm for the market, which had been struggling to survive before Tudor came in.
The change was not universally welcomed, with some stallholders launching protests outside the council house.
But Tudor sold 1,107 stalls in June, an increase of 415 compared to the same month in 2017.
Every stall is now occupied on Wednesdays, while occupancy rates are around the 70 per cent mark on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Fifteen permanent market traders have joined the market.
Council leader Patrick Harley said: “We are absolutely delighted with Tudor Markets.
"To their credit, they have invested heavily in a bid to rejuvenate the market, which, let’s be honest, was struggling.
“They had to get through a difficult first few months and then a cold and tough winter, but the figures here suggest the tide is turning.
"I hope it continues, because a thriving marketplace is crucial for any successful town centre."
James Willis, of Tudor Markets, said: “We’re really pleased with our first year running the market in Dudley.
"It was tough initially, but the figures suggest we’re getting there and we’ll keep working hard to try and give people in the town a market they can be proud of."
Tudor Markets is hosting a Big Day Out in the marketplace on Saturday, September 1.
The family fun day will feature live entertainment, a fun fair and food court area.
