While summer isn’t over just yet, the team behind the Belfast Christmas Market are already gearing up for the festive season as they are looking for businesses to join this year.
Market Place, the operators of the market, are currently looking for businesses eager to join this year’s market.
A competition – the Jolly Big Business Boost – which is run by the operators is once again back and giving small businesses an opportunity to trade for free.
This year Belfast’s Christmas Market is running from November 16 until December 22.
The competition focuses on giving talented individuals a platform to sell their products to an expected 1 million visitors at this year’s Christmas Market.
Winners will also receive marketing and PR guidance to support with brand exposure.
Andy Pidgen, Market Manager and Jolly Big Business Boost judge, is excited to see some what NI’s small businesses have to offer.
‘’The Jolly Big Business Boost is a fantastic initiative that truly supports and nurtures entrepreneurial talent.
“By offering young businesses a chance to trade for free at the Belfast Christmas Market, we provide them with invaluable exposure and a platform to showcase their products to a vast audience.
“Over the past decade, we have seen many winners flourish and grow, and we are thrilled to continue this tradition of fostering innovation and business growth in Northern Ireland.”
Joining Ms Pidgen on the judging panel this year, will be CEO of Belfast One BID, Martina Connolly and Bathe Botanicals owner, Christine McCaughey, who is the previous winner of the competition.
Offering unique artisan soap, bath and body products with a Northern Irish twist, Bathe Botanicals credits the competition and is excited to return to this year’s Christmas Market to showcase new products.
Ms McCaughey said winning the competition had a huge impact on her business.
“Winning the Jolly Big Business Boost was a game-changer for my business. Trading at the Belfast Christmas Market allowed me to reach an incredible number of customers and significantly increase my brand’s visibility.
“Since winning the competition, we were able to attend two national trade shows, stock our products with around 20 new retailers, and take on 3 members of staff.
“We are also in the midst of developing a new line of products. It literally has been a turning point for our business. I highly recommend this competition to any young entrepreneur looking to take their business to the next level.”
To enter the competition or for more information visit here.