The manager of Middlesbrough’s historic Dundas Indoor Market says the return of the popular Easter Market this weekend marks a major step in the recovery from Covid.
Three years ago the government had just ordered the first lockdown and people were told to stay at home.
“Even though it’s not that long ago it’s hard to believe what happened,” said David Harris. “Everything was shut and we obviously couldn’t even contemplate holding an Easter Market. We didn’t know how long it was going to before life became normal again – if ever.”
But at Christmas the Indoor Market’s Christmas events returned and on Saturday a dozen local traders will join the resident independent businesses for the Easter Market which takes place in the mall at the Dundas Shopping Centre.
“It’s great to have it back,” said David. “We’re looking forward to welcoming lots of shoppers who are trying to find something a bit different at an affordable price.”
He added: “All businesses have had it tough with COVID and now the cost of living crisis, but retailers have had a really difficult time – just look at what’s happening in the centre of Middlesbrough. But we’ve survived and we’re seeing more people showing an interest in taking their first step into becoming retailers…and that’s where we can provide the support they need.”
As well as free advice, the market helps protect its traders against spiralling energy costs. They all benefit from an all-inclusive deal which means their rent covers the cost of their energy as well as business rates and fibre broadband.
The price of a unit starts as low as £75 per week to help new tenants get up and running through the make-or-break early months.
In the last six weeks new start-up businesses Heaven on Earth and All Wrapped Up have started trading and the latter – which provides handmade gifts, decorations and party packs – is already planning to move to a bigger unit at Dundas.