Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill set to host local heats of National Young Trader of the Year competition

West Suffolk is once again set to showcase the talent and creativity of young entrepreneurs as two market towns host the local heats for the prestigious Young Traders Competition.

The local heats will be hosted in for the fifth year in Bury St Edmunds on Wednesday, June 18 and Haverhill on Saturday, July 5.

The winners and runners-up from the local heats will advance to the regional final in Bury St Edmunds on Wednesday, July 30.

Participants will be competing for a place at the national final in Stratford-upon-Avon over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Shoppers can enjoy an array of high-quality products from the young traders, including homewares, food and drink, arts and crafts, clothing, and more.

Many of the participants are already familiar faces at the West Suffolk markets, including the popular monthly makers markets in Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, and Newmarket.

In addition to market trading, several competitors operate successful online businesses and regularly participate in fairs and events across the region.

The Young Traders Competition, organised by the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF), is a national initiative designed to encourage young people to explore market trading as a viable business opportunity.

West Suffolk Council is a supporter of the NMTF campaign, providing practical assistance such as tables, gazebos, and insurance coverage to help young traders thrive.

Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, cabinet member for growth at West Suffolk Council, said: “The Young Trader Competition is a fantastic opportunity for young people aged 16 to 30 who are looking to start their own business, turn a creative passion into a career, or even generate additional income.

“It allows budding entrepreneurs to test their products, network, gain confidence, develop communication skills, and engage with the local community.

“I am excited to see the incredible talent on display and encourage everyone to come along and support these young traders.”

Competitors will be assessed by a panel of local judges based on their products, customer service skills, professionalism and interactions with fellow traders.

If you would like to get involved in the competition, please contact: markets@westsuffolk.gov.uk.