Independent’s Day UK is an annual celebration of the UK’s independent retailers. It’s celebrated on our around the 4th of July, with it being officially honoured on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd this year. And as an indie shopping destination with a diverse range of small businesses, we just had to mark the occasion with a blog.
The essence of the campaign is to give local businesses the support and promotion that they deserve, and encourage shoppers to opt for small over big retailers. We know more than most here at Blackburn Market that independent businesses are vital to our economy and community.
Blackburn Market simply wouldn’t exist without its traders, all of whom are passionate entrepreneurs dedicated to bringing the best possible service and products to the community.
With independent retail having been put under pressure like never before due to the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to support local. And when there’s so much choice and great service to enjoy – shopping small is an easy choice to make!
So to celebrate Independent’s Day Uk, we’re sharing 5 facts about what makes Blackburn Market so special…
- Blackburn Market was first established in 1848
Our market has been a central hub for the town centre and community for 174 years.
The first market house was built in an Italian style with an impressive 72ft high bell tower. Sadly, the original buildings were demolished in the 1960s, when the shopping precinct was built, but why not ask your parents or grandparents if they have any memories of the original market?
Although that was the end of the Italian style market house, it was by no means the end for Blackburn Market.
- Some of our stalls have been on the market for over a century
Speaking of our long history, some of our stalls have been on Blackburn Market for almost our entire existence.
For example, Greens has been trading on the market since 1865! In our social media Traders Talk series, Dawn told us how the stall is a family business and that she’s the last person in the final generation that’s carried it on.
The stall evolved from selling mainly raw poultry, to cooked chickens and other cooked meats. Everything is cooked with care by Dawn herself, so you can be guaranteed that it’s all excellent quality and delicious.
Another long standing stall is Whittaker’s Butchers, who have been trading on Blackburn Market since 1916. Malcolm explained how selling high quality locally sourced produce has always been a priority – the market may look different to how it did in 1916, but some things never change.
Blackburn Market is a vibrant blend of old and new, with old stalls trading next to brand new stalls such as The Artisan Bakers. Well, we say brand new, but what we really mean is new to Blackburn Market – the business itself was established in 1890!
- You can experience a huge range of cuisine in our food court
We’re very proud of our food court here at Blackburn Market. It offers something for everyone, and a unique dining experience.
One of the great things about supporting local and opting to eat at Blackburn Market, is that you and your friends can all eat from different places, yet sit together in our communal seating areas.
With traditional British meals such as pie and peas, fresh sandwiches and fish and chips, plus fantastic coffee and homemade cakes and diverse offerings from around Asia and Greece, you can experience a taste of the world right here in Blackburn Town Centre.
Independent’s Day UK is the perfect excuse to come down to Blackburn Market on Saturday and enjoy some lunch with loved ones – not that you ever really need an excuse!
- Blackburn Market hosts regular free family events
We’re not only a shopping destination, Blackburn Market is also a friendly hub for the community.
Regular free children’s activities take place within the market, with recent events including The Songsmiths mobile music factory and make & take home macrame workshops.
More events are coming very soon, so make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to know.
- Blackburn Market was named Best Indoor Market by the NABMA
Shortly after the “new” market opened in the Mall in 2011, it was voted Best Indoor Market by the National Association of British Market Authorities in 2012, which was a fantastic achievement.
Ten years on, and while we can’t exactly call the current market “new” anymore, we feel it still feels fresh, modern and inviting. Our convenient central location makes it easy to visit all your favourite shops and stalls and support local independent businesses.
Don’t forget that we also have plenty of parking available, and that we’re also right next to Blackburn bus station and a short walk from Blackburn train station.
Shop small this Independent’s Day UK
We hope you’ve learnt something new about Blackburn Market, and that you’re feeling inspired to shop small and back your local independent retailers.
Where you choose to shop really does have an impact – so make sure you’re spending your money wisely.
We hope to see you very soon here at Blackburn Market. In the meantime, why not check out our stalls, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram? Please share photos of your visit on social media – don’t forget to tag us!
