Market beating the crunch, say bosses

Shrewsbury Market Hall managers today said the shopping destination is thriving despite the credit crunch, as people looking to save money are turning to them.

Managers at the hall, which is on two floors covering the area of a football pitch, believe that they are set to improve the variety of stores available to shoppers as businesses look for more affordable premises.

Administration manager Kate Gittins said: "There are more than 45 retailers selling everything from organic vegetables to antiques and collectables and our butchers recorded record takings earlier in the year."

With the credit squeeze encouraging more businesses to look at affordable premises, the Market Hall in is an alternative.

"It is the ideal location for its competitive rates and we are looking forward to expanding the business in the future," said tenant Darrell Paterson, co-owner of AD Discounts.

Lin Tisdale, owner of Lin's Flowers, said she had continued to benefit from good levels of trade despite problems in the economy.

She said: "Because I have been here 17 years I have built up a lot of regular customers who keep coming back.

"The only thing that stops them is when there are roadworks or things like that. The market hall is also more of a social place and they look forward to coming."

Customer Diane Grigsby, of Newport, said she was a regular visitor to the market and went for the high quality of products and personalised service offered.

She said: "It's got the specialist shop that I like to use called The Icing Tip. I live in Newport but I tend to come here at least once a month.

"It's got some really nice stuff, I love the meat at the butchers and the cheeses are gorgeous."

Managers said traders' agreements were flexible, with no long term lease commitment, solicitor delays or fees.

Stalls are available to let on the ground and gallery level and the building is open six days a week (not Sundays) 6.30am to 6pm.

By Russell Roberts