CARTOONS BY CHRIS BRITT

addition, you need to decide if you can commit to an every weekend presence at the
market. That means setting up your stuff early in the morning, manning the booth
throughout the day, and taking it all down each night. Also, many neighborhood
markets will want to take a cut of your profits in addition to the vendor fees and most
communities require a business license and inspections, if you’re selling food or
beverages. The application process is pretty straightforward. Some markets require photos
of your proposed booth set up or samples of your products to see if they fit the market’s
overarching mission and intent.
ADVANTAGES
Inexpensive market research. If your product is in its early development stages, a
market can be a good place to test it and get feedback from prospective customers
regarding the product itself, packaging, pricing, quality, etc.
Local visibility. Finding the right customer can be one of the hardest things a business
can do. A market can help you build a loyal customer base that will follow you to your
next location, including a brick and mortar operation.
Business skill builder. The organic nature of these markets makes them a perfect place
to refine your customer service skills, master mobile credit card payment systems, improve
marketing strategies and optimize inventory control systems.
Convenience. If your product tanks, you can close shop. There usually aren’t any
penalties for closing your stall as others are waiting in the wings to take your space.
DISADVANTAGES
Time intensive. You have to give up weekends. That means an early morning start and a
late end to the day.
Costly. A nice tent, signage, equipment, mobile payment systems and sufficient inventory
can set you back. Additional fees may be involved, including a business license, food
permit (if you’re selling food items) and fines if your food handling isn’t up to snuff.
Plus, you may have to share a percentage of your receipts with the market association.
Commercial kitchen. If you are selling consumables, local laws may require you to
use a commercial kitchen instead of your home. Often, there is a threshold where you
have to make the jump. Just be sure to check local regulations to ensure that you’re in
compliance.
Competitive. As noted, the best markets have a waiting list. You may have to wait a year
or more to secure a spot, and even then, you may be starting in one of the less trafficked
areas.
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