Chester Market Manager named Market Manager of the Year

The National Association of British Market Authorities, (NABMA) has named Chester Market Manager, Adele Thomas as its Market Manager of the Year for large markets.

The awards were held as part of the NABMA 2026 annual general meeting and conference, which brought delegates together to recognise exceptional leadership, innovation, resilience, partnership working and commitment to local communities across the UK markets sector.

Adele was recognised for outstanding leadership, commercial performance and her wider contribution to the markets industry.

Opened almost four years ago, the new Chester Market continues to operate at 100% occupancy, with strong footfall, trader confidence and a collaborative culture helping to support its ongoing success.

The judges also highlighted Adele’s willingness to share her knowledge with market operators across the UK and Europe, host visits and provide the benefit of her experience to colleagues elsewhere in the sector.

Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation said:

“Congratulations to Adele, her recognition as Market Manager of the Year is entirely deserved with the success of Chester Market. Cheshire West & Chester Council is committed to its markets across the borough, and is grateful to its dedicated and experienced staff who make our markets unique to the communities they serve, bringing people into towns and the city centre.”

Adele also manages Winsford Market, soon to benefit from over £1m investment to refurbish the current building.

The Council’s market manager, for Ellesmere Port Market and the new Northwich Market, Karen Bates, has also held the title of Market Manager of the Year.

Pictured: L-R - Councillor David Hopkins, President of NABMA; award winner Adele Thomas of Chester Market; and Mark Parry from ZAPP, the award sponsors.