The Role & Expectations
The work is sourcing or making stock, setting up and packing down the stall, displaying goods well, selling to customers and handling the money and admin. A friendly, persuasive manner, a good eye for what sells and stamina matter, since you are on your feet outdoors and your takings depend on how well you trade.
You are self-employed, so income is uncertain and weather-dependent, with early starts, long days and quiet patches, and no sick or holiday pay. You cover stall fees, stock and transport, and building regular pitches and customers takes time and graft.
No qualifications are needed, but you must register as self-employed with HMRC, book pitches with market operators, and food traders need hygiene training and council registration. Most people learn by doing and starting small.
Daily Responsibilities
- Source or make stock to sell
- Set up and pack down the stall
- Display goods attractively
- Sell to and chat with customers
- Handle cash, card and pricing
- Book pitches and pay stall fees
- Track stock, costs and takings