Calling all young market traders

Published: 03 Mar 2025

Last year's winner Silver Hollow at their stand with their 2024 certificate.

The search is on for the Young Market Trader of the Year 2025, with the local heat of the national Young Traders Market competition set to return to Horsham town centre for another year on Sunday 27 April.

Whether you are new to market trading or are an existing trader aged 16-30 years, this exciting competition is free to enter with  applications open now, find the online entry form here. Traders must be under the age of 31 on 22 August 2025 to be eligible to enter.

Horsham’s Young Traders Market will take place on West Street, organised by local market operator Coden Events in association with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) and supported by Horsham District Council.  Alongside this vibrant local event, West Street will also be hosting its regular monthly Arts and Crafts Market to add to a lively trading atmosphere.

Following the local heat, the competition winner will have the sought after opportunity to progress to the London and Southeast Regional Final at Broadway Market in Hackney, London, with the goal of reaching the National Final and the chance to win Young Trader of the Year.

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Property Cllr Joanne Knowles said:

I am pleased we are hosting the local heat of the National Young Traders Market competition once again this year. This event will not only offer a fantastic platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, but will also boost our town centre's vibrant market scene.

This is a wonderful opportunity to build your business, gain exposure, and connect with fellow traders. We encourage all traders aged 16-30 to take part, whether you're new to the trade or already have experience.

The NMTF Market is just one element of an ongoing campaign by Horsham District Council to support local market trading across the District.

Anyone thinking of trading on a local market can find lots of helpful resources on the our website and on the day of the event there will be a ‘drop-in’ stall providing advice and information in person.