Council celebrates antiques market success ahead of Small Business Saturday
A couple from Manchester belong to a faithful collective of specialist traders who are looking forward to a bright future on Newcastle-under-Lyme Markets.
Rachael and Paul Brittain are among 27 small business owners who will continue to create a unique atmosphere on The Stones on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the year – while exploring new opportunities – now that Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has negotiated an enhanced contract for the popular antiques and collectibles market.
The sold-out market, operated by the Antique Forum Group, sells a range of rare items and timeless curiosities from jewellery, pottery and clothing to vinyl records, toys and military items, with traders being a healthy mix of local people who are part of the furniture to newer additions who travel miles, from as far as Ludlow, to be part of the action.
As Small Business Saturday approaches on 6 December, the council is shining a spotlight on independent traders who bring character, creativity and community spirit to the thriving market while encouraging shoppers, collectors and treasure-hunters to discover fascinating stories at the same time as supporting those who help to keep the town centre vibrant.
Cllr. Stephen Sweeney, Cabinet member for Finance, Town Centres and Growth, said:
Our aim is to create a vibrant and welcoming town centre where people want to spend more of their time. Work is ongoing to improve the look and feel of The Stones, subsequently supporting businesses like Rachael and Paul’s by further increasing footfall. An antiques market that’s full to capacity twice a week is unprecedented regionally, not just locally, so we want to build on that.”
The Brittains initially started selling their personal heirlooms on The Stones during the Covid-19 pandemic and have since expanded their enterprise.
Rachael said:
We were made redundant during the pandemic and decided to sell some items that Paul had collected over the years to tide us over until things calmed down and the job market opened up again. However, we enjoyed it so much and managed to earn a living so it became a full-time business, and we’ve never looked back.
There are so many benefits to shopping locally at places like the antiques market. You can physically touch something – which is impossible online – to make sure it’s what you want, have a great conversation and negotiate a price. It can extend the life of something, which is good for the environment, and also helps people’s mental health.
We’ve made some really good friends here in Newcastle; we have our regulars who stop for a chat, a cup of tea and some advice. We also learn a lot from others. People get a buzz out of finding something and it gives you a warm feeling knowing that you’ve made someone’s day.”
Market organiser Gareth Brunt added:
We deal in quality, high value and niche items which appeal to all ages. The traders come, rain or shine, to put food on their table. It’s their livelihoods. Footfall is very important: less footfall means less profit for them. When you shop local with a small business, you’re supporting jobs, creativity and entrepreneurship.
It’s great to see the markets going from strength to strength generally and we’re pleased to be part of that success. The council’s facilities are the best around – the fixed, weatherproof stalls provide protection all year round and the LED lighting is fantastic.”
Council Leader Simon Tagg said:
Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to celebrate our antique traders and invite new people to come down and support them. Small businesses contribute to the local economy, preserve valuable craftsmanship and offer something truly distinctive that you won’t find anywhere else. It's the perfect place to find that unusual Christmas gift.”
The Stones – set to the backdrop of the historic Guildhall – is also home to general and event markets including the successful Castle Artisan Market which takes place on the third Sunday of the month.