Chester Market has welcomed over 200,000 visitors so far this year. It’s not surprising that peak time is over lunch following the arrival of Stile Napoletano and Crustum in March bringing Italian pizza and traditional Artisan bread and pastries to the existing choice of tasty meals and snacks.
Work has been completed on the dining area as a new Tapas style stall providing family favourite recipes arrives this month followed by a new delicatessen sandwich bar.
The Market will be near to full capacity this month after more new stalls open. Zimsimbi bring handcrafted wildlife sculptures made from reclaimed metals and hand carved homewares to the Market. PIP Décor are offering a range of soft furnishings and gifts. Planet Anime specialises in Anime and Manga merchandise and a new hairdresser also offering spray tans ‘Chester Salon’ has now joined the Market.
Councillor Samantha Dixon, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “The face of Markets is changing and Chester’s Indoor Market has seen more new stalls opening with a wide range of food stalls, gifts and services. Visitor numbers continue to increase with our enhanced food offer especially attracting lunchtime shoppers. There will be a Brunch offer coming soon on race days and a changing events programme.
“Our Market was experiencing reduced numbers of visitors last year, something that was being seen in markets across the country. Working with the traders we introduced new signage, a new website and a free shopper hopper bus. Our new range of traders has also given the Market a much needed boost. Visitors to the Market can also claim a discount on the Market Car Park by scanning their ticket.”
Chester Market has a central position in the Chester Northgate plans, where it will transfer to a purpose built building and Market Square next to a new multi-screen cinema.
A new series of weekend events has been introduced including a Record Fair on 19 May to promote Love your Local market.