A group of small businesses have come together to rent an empty shop in the York Coppergate Centre – and transformed it into an artisan market.
In what used to be the Castle Fine Art gallery, York Artisan Markets have transformed the empty unit into a hub for independent traders.
It will be open every day until Sunday 18 December.
This is their second location in York, the first being at the Designer Outlet.
“We’re trying to bring some small businesses back to the high street,” explained stall-owner Amy Mckee.
“After Covid, a lot of small businesses aren’t doing well. It’s just really nice to be able to be there in person, chatting about what we do and meeting other small business owners.”
“We want to mix things up a little bit for Christmas and take advantage of some other people who might be visiting York.”
Amy is the owner of the small business Voldycat, and creates items such as keyrings, earrings, and hanging resin decorations.
The other permanent traders are Jess Miller Art, D.J. Clough Wildlife Artist, Little Apple, Classy & Fabulous Jewellery, Skylos Dog Treats, The Inappropriate Thoughts Store, Hill40official, and The Old Oak.
There are also rotating stalls – so no two days are the same! Temporary traders include Tori Foster and Devaiya.
There are wide variety of items available, such as jewellery, candles, artwork, crystals – even dog treats. It’s never too early to start your Christmas shopping…
“The general reaction has been people saying that they really like the idea, and that it’s really nice to come in and chat to some local small businesses,” said Amy.
“I think York’s quite well known for its markets and for its small businesses and its really nice to be able to have this space for small businesses.
“A lot of people come in and just say how nice it is.”
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Amy also encourages anyone who has a small business and would like to try something like this out to get in touch, as there is availability for tables.
Small business owners can get it touch either by contacting via Facebook or Instagram or to send an email to [email protected].
“We just want to support people,” said Amy. “If you’re interested get in touch!”
York Artisan Market on Coppergate is open every day until Sunday 18 December. It’s open 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, and closes earlier on Sundays.
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