New to Market Trading? Start Here
Are you brand new to market trading and unsure where to begin? You’re not alone — and you’re in the right place.
The National Market Traders Federation has produced an excellent, up-to-date guide to retail market trading, designed specifically for people exploring new livelihoods. While it’s ideal for beginners, the advice it contains is equally valuable for experienced traders looking to refine or grow their business.
https://www.nmtf.co.uk/spring-into-markets
The guide explains how market trading allows businesses to grow gradually, highlights the flexibility of working different markets on different days, and shows how trading can help develop essential business and communication skills — as well as the importance of building a loyal customer base.
The fully interactive Spring into Markets guide is available now and completely free to view and use.
Trading With LSD Promotions — Simple & Supported
We operate a wide range of markets and special events suitable for all types of traders and products. We supply high-quality, professionally presented stalls, making it easy to get started.
To trade with us, you simply need:
- Your stock
- Your pricing system
- Your preferred style of display
Everything else is taken care of.
Our Stalls & Equipment
You don’t need to buy a stall to trade with us. We supply pop-up canopy stalls and counters at all our markets and events. These stalls are not only practical and weather-resistant — they’re designed to look great too.
Our stalls are:
- Clean, well-maintained, and colour-coordinated
- Finished with counter skirts or black cloth covers
- Designed to frame your products and enhance visual appeal
Lighting is usually provided during the winter months on LSD-hired stalls only, helping improve visibility, safety, and presentation — particularly on darker days. Good lighting brings the market to life and helps your stock stand out.
Bringing Your Own Stall
On many events, it can be more cost-effective to bring your own unit, as use of LSD stalls is chargeable. This is worth considering as your business grows.
Top tips:
- Most event sites are tight on space
- A 3m x 3m or 3m x 2m unit is recommended
- A photo of your stall is required before your application can be approved
Presentation Matters
We’ll help make your stock look great — and make sure you can see what you’re doing.
We encourage traders to dress well and present their stalls creatively, and we occasionally offer display demonstrations. Seasonal events are a chance to really shine: decorating your stall (and even yourself) to suit the theme helps attract attention and draw in customers.
Remember — the better your “flash”, the more likely you are to make a sale.
Extra Support for New Traders
We understand that your first day of trading can feel nerve-wracking. That’s why we’re always on hand to help. Most traders find that after day one, they feel far more confident — and before long, like seasoned professionals.
Maintaining a Consistent Look
To protect the overall appearance of our markets, traders are only permitted to use clear side sheets as additional weather protection. This ensures consistency while still allowing practical shelter when needed.
Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance is a statutory requirement for all market traders operating anywhere in the UK.
One straightforward way to meet this requirement is through membership of the National
Market Traders Federation (NMTF).
NMTF membership includes full public liability insurance cover, along with a range of additional benefits for market traders.
You can find out more about NMTF membership and cover via their website.
Alternative Insurance Options
If you prefer, you may also arrange your own public liability insurance independently.
One option available to traders is G M Imber & Sons Ltd, who offer market trader insurance packages.
If you’re unsure which option is best for you or need help understanding the requirements, please contact us — we’re always happy to help guide you through the process.