Our successful Teenage Market will be welcoming a panel of experts when the event is in town tomorrow (Saturday, 15th September).
The panel, commissioned by national government, will be studying the market to find out why it has been such a success in Bolton and how it contributes to the revitalisation of the high street.
The market gives young entrepreneurs, aged 13 to 25, an opportunity to showcase their business ideas.
The nationwide initiative was set up by teenage brothers Joe and Tom Barratt from Stockport as a way to support local young people and transform town centres.
Bolton Council held its first teenage market in 2016 and has been holding regular events ever since.
Around 25 independent entrepreneurs will be selling items ranging from jewellery to cakes, coffee and arts and crafts on Victoria Square, from 10am to 4pm.
A cohort from The Institute of Place Management, from Manchester Metropolitan University, will be visiting the market to get an insight from young people about their views.
This will be fed back directly to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Cllr Adia: “We are really pleased that Bolton has been chosen for this panel visit – it shows just how well regarded the event is and we know that our market is one of the most successful in the country.
Deputy Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Ebrahim Adia, said: “The Teenage Market has been so successful in Bolton and always attracts lots of fantastic young entrepreneurs
“I am delighted that we are once again giving young people a free platform to showcase their business talents and creative skills.”
Professor Cathy Parker, co-ordinating the research on behalf of the panel, added: “We are coming to visit the Teenage Market especially to hear the views of younger people.
“The Teenage Market is unique as a town centre attraction that is organised, staffed, and consumed by young people.
“The stall holders, customers and performers represent a group of people that make up the next generation of entrepreneurs and shoppers.
“We want to see what they value from their market and what they would like the future high street to look like, to be more appealing to them.”
Bolton FM will compere the market and shoppers can also enjoy live music from young bands and singers.