king street markets
One of CityCo’s key aims is to support the city centre retail economy and encourage the flow of footfall around the shopping areas; connecting key routes from Exchange Square, through to St Ann’s, King Street and Spinningfield’s new retail destination The Avenue.
To promote pedestrian flow and in response to a recent downturn on King Street, CityCo has worked with Manchester Markets, partners and retailers to develop the street as a successful new specialist markets venue – in turn supporting the on-going revitalisation of the area.
Working with Manchester Markets, Manchester City Council Highways and retailers, a trial Spring market was secured in May 2010. CityCo led face-to-face consultations with businesses in order to obtain support and achieve required road closures and relevant licensing.
King Street was brought to life with a carpet of flowers, plant stalls and cafe with seating area. CityCo assisted with the promotion of the market; producing radio adverts and securing a host of local press coverage. We then led on business consultation post-event, and were glad to report a notable increase in footfall during the period – with over 100,000 people visiting the market.
The resounding success led to liaison with Manchester Markets to secure the street as an additional venue for the city’s 2010 Christmas Markets. CityCo assisted with logistics and business liaison to bring a new French market to the street, with chalet-style stalls and high quality food and drink.
The markets were promoted as part of CityCo’s high profile 'Manchester’s Magical Christmas’ marketing and PR campaign.
The new markets created a natural trail for shoppers; through from Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square, onto King Street, along Cross Street and into the main site on Albert Square.
Feedback has once again been fantastic. CityCo’s footfall counters over the period have tracked an increase in footfall on King Street of over 100%, compared to the same period in 2009, equating to 400,000 visitors. Manchester’s Christmas Markets have since been named the Best Market Attraction 2010 by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).
CityCo will be working in partnership with Manchester Markets, retailers and businesses to secure the regular return of markets to King Street in 2011.
