Ruislip & Eastcote & Northwood Gazette
Market ‘forced to close’ after facing a 300% rise in costs
TRADER SLAMS THE ‘UNFAIR’ CLOSURE OF POPULAR MARKET IN EALING
A WEST London market has claimed that a 300% rise in costs has forced it to close down.
The Ealing market usually takes place on the last Saturday of every month but has decided to stop operating along The Avenue, West Ealing. The Avenue Vintage and Antiques Market blamed the rising cost of erecting and hiring marquees for its decision to discontinue.
Despite closing down, they have vowed to return if the prices are dropped and the market becomes more affordable for traders and organisers.
In a leaflet outlining why they need to close down they thanked local people for the support they had showed over the years.
The notice said: “The Avenue Vintage and Antiques Market has been discontinued. The market has unfortunately been discontinued due to costs rising over 300%. If costs come down in the future we will be in a position to restart the market. We would like to thank everybody for their support over the years.”
Brexit, coronavirus and the cost of living crisis were all blamed for the demise of a much-loved, monthly, community event.
With the pandemic halting weddings, some assumed that marquee charges were being increased because of a surge in demand for the outdoor shelters.
One former trader, Russell McCaul, 53, said that it was a “sad loss for locals”.
Russell, who sells old jewellery at multiple vintage markets across the capital, said: “It’s a shame that small independent markets such as the Ealing one are being priced out.
“Slowly these markets are becoming harder to operate and like with any business they need to make money.
“Markets aren’t alone with increased costs, but because I work at them, I can see how much they are struggling.
“I’ve worked at the Ealing market for some time and much like many markets it is good for the community so this will come as a blow.
“It brings money to the high street, not just to traders. More trade becomes available for everyone and it seems unfair that this is being reduced because of rocketing prices.
“I have no solution to be honest, I just find it quite sad. The prices are what they are and hopefully they can be reduced and I’ll get to Ealing with my jewellery again.”
The increase in charges was for the event hire of gazebos and marquees. It did not have anything to do with rent of the space or licensing.