Shrewsbury Market Hall has beaten stiff competition from markets across the country and has been crowned Britain’s Favourite Market for 2018.

The result was revealed at the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) conference in Birmingham today [THURS].

NABMA runs the Great British Market Awards each year and includes a category to find Britain’s Favourite Market.  An on-line public vote asked people to nominate their favourite market and once the polls had closed on 30 November, the top six markets attracting the most votes were short-listed for the second round of the competition.

Shrewsbury Market Hall welcomed the judges last month [DEC] and Facilities Manager, Kate Gittins, demonstrated how the market works with local partners to encourage new opportunities for traders and how businesses can develop within the facility. The judges were also keen to find out the ways in which the Market Hall has increased footfall with its diverse range of stallholders, its marketing strategy and how the events held there have helped to ensure that customers spend more time in the facility and return there on a regular basis.

The Market Hall was also the subject of a visit from mystery shoppers as part of the judging process.

Helen Ball, town clerk for Shrewsbury Town Council, said: “We are thrilled that Shrewsbury Market Hall has been recognised as Britain’s Favourite Market.  The result bears great testimony to those who make it happen, showing outstanding customer service and a commitment to providing value for money.  We are pleased that the judges were able to see for themselves what a truly fantastic market we have in Shrewsbury.”

Alan Mosley, Leader of Shrewsbury Town Council, added: “The result shows that our Market Hall is clearly a favourite with the people of Shrewsbury and it is a fabulous achievement that we have received such a fantastic accolade. I hope that this recognition means the Market Hall can continue to go from strength to strength over the coming years.”

The Market Hall is run jointly by Shropshire Council and Shrewsbury Town Council and they collectively pride themselves on having 100% occupancy and a healthy waiting list.

With its contemporary architecture and the striking clock tower dominating the town’s skyline, Shrewsbury Market Hall has been home to traders since 1965.

Selling everything from fruit and vegetables to meat & poultry, books, china, bikes, collectibles, arts and crafts, it is the place with much character and soul.  

The mix is so varied that the Market Hall is promoted as the only place you can buy your bird nuts right next to having champagne and oysters.