A series of open air markets have helped create a vibrant and buzzing environment at Temple Quay at the heart of Bristol’s business quarter.
Organised by GVA, managing agents at Temple Quay, the markets were launched in the summer of 2013 as part of a wider campaign to offer businesses and their staff attractions over the lunch time period. In the run up to Christmas, the December market took on more of a Festive atmosphere with additional stalls selling Christmas gifts and crafts, as well as street entertainment such as carol singers.
The markets have also proved popular with people walking through Temple Quay from Temple Meads towards the city centre.
Vicki Williams, Associate at GVA, explains that the markets have had a dual benefit – providing people working at and passing through Temple Quay with an exciting and different retail experience, as well as a business opportunity for local traders.
She says, “With Temple Quay being home to 5,000 people in more than 30 businesses, as well as Temple Meads station being close by, this has been a prime opportunity to create something new and varied for the area.
“The markets take place on the first, second and fourth Thursday of every month. With street food increasing in popularity, and so many influences here in the city, our stalls have included Agnes Spencer’s amazing Jamaican cuisine; Niang’s Thai Snacks; She Sells Sushi; American Kitchen, Jacob’s finest falafel and hummus dishes, as well as Sue’s Cakes.
“As managing agents part of our role is to help make Temple Quay a destination with a sense of community, and with a limited permanent retail and leisure facility, the markets have certainly helped create a buzz Temple Quay. We make sure all our traders are of the highest quality and they have all proven hugely successful with customers.”
Vicki Gazzard, who works at Bond Dickinson at Temple Quay says,
“I love it when the Food Market comes to Temple Quay – it’s really convenient for work and there is a wonderful variety of food to try at lunchtime. I know lots of others at Bond Dickinson look forward to it too!”
The markets were originally planned as a temporary event, but due to their success, the markets will continue as a regular part of the calendar during 2014, having become a popular and established part of life at Temple Quay. GVA works with David Pyne of Square Route, as well as the BEATS food collective, to put on the markets.