The Pioneers Market in Rochdale reopens after 10 years, featuring updated stalls and honoring co-operative movement founders.
It runs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. There is space for nearly eighty stalls. The name honors the Rochdale Pioneers. They started the co-operative movement.
The market struggled after 2014. It moved from the shopping center and became an outdoor market. The Adhan Group bought the center, and they wanted to revive the market.
Stalls are named after original Pioneers. Eliza Brierley was the first female Pioneer. Boards tell about key people in the movement.
Renovations updated the space. Electrics were fixed. The market had a soft launch. The official launch is in March.
Martin Ballard manages the center. He said they are figuring out logistics, including parking and waste. On opening day, five traders started. Over twenty traders were there on Wednesday.
More traders are set for Saturday. Many people want stalls in the market. The market seeks specific traders, and they want local products. Artisan goods are desired as well. They aim to stand out.
Ballard said they overcame challenges. Asbestos was an issue. He is proud the market is open, and they plan to grow.
More traders join each market day. They want unique items people want. The market aims to offer exciting things.
A flea market may return on market days. Details are coming soon. A grand opening event will happen in March.