When the Market Stall’s – Where is Dublin’s Market?
One doesn’t have to go back too far into the archives to find headlines relating to markets in Dublin. Recent headlines include the uses of the Fruit & Veg Markets in the north inner city, the future (or fate) of the Iveagh Markets in The Liberties and plans for a market use at CHQ alongside EPIC, Europe’s leading tourist attraction (World Travel Awards). With the concept such a visited topic one looks to examples, both here and abroad, of where markets exist in cities as major attractions, creating hubs of activity that provide a platform to promote local, independent businesses, producers and suppliers and exhibit the tastes and cuisines of the area.
In Ireland, the most prominent example is of course Cork’s famous English Markets. Developed and owned by the Council, this traditional food market first opened in 1788 and remains as a hub of retail activity, with independent, local stallholders (some generations old, others local start-ups) selling a variety of fresh food and artisanal goods. While the dominance of a grocery offer suggests the target clientele are largely locals, a combination of atmosphere and architecture makes the market a major attraction for the City.
The Time Out Market in Lisbon is considered as a must-do when visiting the Portuguese capital. The market was founded by the publishing company with a vision to showcase the best business ideas and projects in Lisbon. The market now contains restaurants, shops, bars and a music venue alongside fruit & veg, meat, fish and flower vendors. London’s Camden Market has developed into a retail, food & drink destination in London, comprising over 1,000 shops, stalls and stands with an array of unique independent offers. Other examples include Mercado in London and Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid.
A common theme of these markets is the presence of independent, local operators. These operators allow the markets offer something unique and different from the traditional high street or shopping centre mix. The artisan nature of these vendors can serve to promote the markets as a tourist destination where visitors can experience local cuisine and support local producers. The planning submitted for the proposed market offer at CHQ is an opportunity for an exciting market offer to break into Dublin and the recent pop-up, Me Auld Flower market in the Fruit & Veg Market in Smithfield as part of the St Patrick’s Day Festival may indicate that more exciting development lies ahead.
If you want to discuss the retail dynamics of City & Town Centre further you can contact us @consultancy@bannon.ie
Author: George Colyer, Surveyor, Bannon
Date: 3rd April 2023
