Young Trader Awards at Mold Market

Mold Market has announced that it will be hosting the Regional Final of the Young Trader Awards on Saturday, 28th June.

This special event, supported by Flintshire County Council, and in partnership with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF), aims to celebrate and support the next generation of market traders, ensuring the long-term vibrancy of local street markets and high streets.

On the day, the market will expand with over twenty additional stalls, welcoming talented young traders from across the region, including those who competed in earlier heats in Mold, Mid and West Wales, and the North-West of England. This gathering promises a lively and diverse marketplace, showcasing fresh ideas and innovative products from emerging entrepreneurs.

Markets Promotion and Engagement Officer, Jonathan Thomas, said:

“Giving the younger generation a platform and helping hand to get them established can only be a good thing. We need to look at the long-term future of the markets and high streets, and initiatives such as these are already having a positive impact. Supporting young traders today means vibrant, thriving markets tomorrow. Receiving funding through the U.K. Governments Shared Prosperity Fund, has enabled us to host events like this and support other services or organisations with public engagement activities”.

The Young Trader Awards have become a vital stepping stone, providing exposure, experience and the confidence needed to succeed in business. By hosting the regional final, Mold Market continues its commitment to fostering community spirit, supporting local businesses, and driving economic growth in the area. 

Tania Blaine, Immortal Flame, added:

“Taking part has been an amazing experience. It’s given me the opportunity to proudly set up and showcase my products to the public, offering a real platform to share my work and build awareness for my business. Exposure for a small business is invaluable, not just in reaching a wide and diverse audience, but also in receiving direct feedback to help me shape and strengthen my business. The Young Trader’s has given me the opportunity to meet other young traders, each bringing their own unique energy and creativity. It’s a vibrant, supportive space”.

One of the traders has also benefitted from the Young Person’s Start Up Grant, available through Business Wales and several more are in the process of applying. Amy Jones of Holywell, who has her own jewellery stall, managed to cover most of her start up costs through the scheme and would encourage anyone thinking of starting their own business to contact Business Wales to see what help is out there.

Chris Dolphin, Cabinet Member for Economy, Environment and Climate said: 

“Mold Market stands alone in our part of Wales as the premier open air shopping experience. It is brilliant that the NMTF has chosen Mold, its market and High street as the location to showcase the Young Trader Awards regional final. At Flintshire County Council we are delighted to welcome as always the premier Market, and now the young business traders too. On Saturday Mold Market is a true Destination hotspot for a shopping experience.”

The young trader’s events will return to Flintshire in 2026.

If you’d like to register your interest please email:

jonathan.thomas@flintshire.gov.uk

... or contact the National Market Traders Federation via their website:

http://www.nmtf.co.uk

Pictured - Mold Market.