Aspiring young entrepreneurs, makers and creators are being given the chance to trade at Stratford-upon-Avon's first-ever Teenage Market this summer.

Taking place on Friday 24th July, alongside the town's popular Rother Street Market, the event will provide 20 free market stalls for young people aged 7 to 25 to showcase and sell their products in a real market environment. The event will run from 9am to 4pm, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the next generation of local talent while enjoying Stratford's historic Charter Market.

Delivered as part of the national Teenage Market initiative, the event aims to inspire young people to explore entrepreneurship by giving them valuable hands-on business experience. Whether they create handmade crafts, artwork, fashion, jewellery, baked goods or have an exciting business idea, participants will have the opportunity to test their products, build confidence and connect with customers in a supportive environment.

Councillor Lorraine Grocott, Portfolio Holder for Environmental and Neighbourhood Services, said: "We are delighted to support Stratford-upon-Avon's first Teenage Market and to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity, talent and business ideas. Markets have been at the heart of Stratford's community for centuries, and this event offers a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of traders and business owners. We encourage residents and visitors to come along, support these young people and discover the exciting products and ideas they have to offer."

Held within Stratford-upon-Avon's historic Charter Market, which has been trading since 1196, the Teenage Market will sit alongside the town's established independent traders, creating a vibrant shopping experience for both visitors and participants. It offers a unique opportunity for young people to experience the excitement of market trading while learning valuable skills in customer service, marketing, pricing and money management.

Councillor Rob Howard, Warwickshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Economy, said: "The Teenage Markets taking place this summer provide a valuable opportunity to support our towns whilst showcasing the talent of Warwickshire's young people. The events delivered so far this year have already demonstrated how Teenage Markets can boost footfall and create a vibrant community atmosphere. They also empower young people with the opportunity to gain real-world business experience that can help shape their future careers. I would encourage everyone to come along, support our young traders, and be part of these fantastic local events."

Each participant will receive a free market stall, table, tablecloth and public liability insurance, allowing them to focus on bringing their products, creativity and enthusiasm. With spaces expected to fill quickly, young people interested in taking part are encouraged to register as soon as possible.

The Stratford Teenage Market forms part of a wider programme of Teenage Market events taking place across Warwickshire this summer, helping to encourage enterprise, creativity and confidence among young people while bringing additional activity and footfall into town centres.

For more information or to apply for a free trading space, visit the Teenage Market website.

Stratford Teenage Market - The Teenage Market