Praise has been heaped on traders at Bolton Market for how they have responded to the ‘horrific business challenges’ of the past 12 months.
A meeting of Bolton’s Council heard that many traders had adapted to operate within ‘ever changing guidelines’ and fitted in to different ways of selling their wares to customers.
Coun Mudasir Dean called for acknowledgement to be given for those traders who despite many challenges, have continued to provide essential goods and services.
He highlighted a range of initiatives organised by the council and the market which have allowed the venue to keep running over the last year.
He said: “Would the executive cabinet member join me in thanking the traders and staff at Bolton Market for the way in which they have provided a great service during these difficult times because of the pandemic.
“The free parking, robust customer safety and home delivery services of fresh produce have provided our towns residents with a first class service.”
Responding, cabinet member for regulatory services, Coun Hilary Fairclough, said: “I am sure I speak for every member of the council when I say thank you to everyone at our award winning market managed by Peter Entwistle who has recently been awarded market manager of the year.
“Traders have worked so hard in strange and difficult times during this pandemic which has seen businesses suffer horrifically. Nonetheless the market, like many businesses, made best of it with new and different ways of serving the people of Bolton.
"Many have introduced new click and collect and home delivery. This was very welcome and highly successful. The council has adapted swiftly and decisively to keep traders and shoppers safe with the ever changing guidelines.
“The free two-hour parking, this is also a first for this market. Our pride and confidence in this market also shines through in the £7m put aside from the towns’ fund to make our market world class.”
The market has a growing reputation as a food destination.
In recent years it has picked up a number of awards including the National Association of British Market Authorities market innovation of the year, the best food market at the BBC Radio 4 Food and best indoor retail market.
