How to become a market trader
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- training with a business organisation
College
You could do a college course, which may help if you're setting up your own business. Courses include:
- Level 1 Award in Business Start Up
- Level 2 Award in Setting Up Your Own Business
- Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Set Up in a New Business
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements for this route.
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Work
You could start by working on a stall part time or at car boot sales. You'll learn on the job from experienced traders, sharing their knowledge and watching their sales methods. Once you've got experience, you could apply to set up your own stall.
Direct Application
You can contact your local council for information on how they let their market stalls, licensing rules and how to apply. For example, you may have to rent a stall on a casual basis before you can apply for a permanent pitch.
Other Routes
You could contact your local Chamber of Commerce, as they often run short courses to help people who want to start their own business.
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Career tips
Do your research on what sells well. You may have an advantage if you're offering something different from other traders.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the National Market Traders Federation for advice and training to support your business.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a market trader and setting up your business through the National Market Traders Federation.