The Artisan Street Fayre – Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to The Artisan Street Fayre, part of SPG Events NW. We organise award-winning artisan markets, craft fayres and community events across the North West, Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

The information below answers our most frequently asked questions. As every venue is different, the individual event listing, trader setup email and current booking terms will always take priority where arrangements vary.

 

General Information

What is The Artisan Street Fayre?

The Artisan Street Fayre is an organiser of artisan markets, craft fayres, food events and community markets. Our events bring together independent businesses, makers, artists, bakers, food producers and other carefully selected traders in popular shopping destinations and town centres.

Is The Artisan Street Fayre part of SPG Events NW?

Yes. The Artisan Street Fayre is operated by SPG Events NW, an established events business organising markets and events since 2015.

Where do you hold events?

We hold events at shopping centres, outlet destinations and town-centre locations across the North West, Yorkshire and the East Midlands. Please visit our website or Trader Portal for the latest venues and dates.

How can I find upcoming event dates?

All available dates are published on our website and Trader Portal. We also announce events on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and through our trader updates.

Are all your events the same?

No. Some events are indoors, some are outdoors, and opening times, facilities, pitch sizes and setup arrangements can vary. Please always check the individual event information before booking or travelling.

Are your events open to the public?

Yes. Our public events are open to everyone during the advertised trading times.

Is there an admission charge for visitors?

Our regular artisan markets and fayres are normally free to enter unless the individual event advert states otherwise.

How can I contact you?

You can contact us through our website or by email. For general and North West enquiries, email spg_events@outlook.com. For Yorkshire and East Midlands enquiries, email yorkshire@spgeventsnw.co.uk.

 

Questions for Visitors

What can I expect to find at an event?

The selection varies at every event but may include handmade gifts, jewellery, artwork, home fragrance, candles, clothing, home décor, pet products, artisan food, cakes, sweet treats, preserves, drinks and much more.

Are all the traders independent businesses?

Our events focus on small and independent businesses. Each trader is responsible for their own products, sales, customer service and legal compliance.

Can I see which traders will be attending?

We regularly share trader spotlights and event previews on our social media pages. The final lineup can change at short notice, so we cannot guarantee that a particular business will attend unless it confirms this directly.

Can I pay by card?

Many traders accept card or contactless payments, but payment methods are decided by each individual business. We recommend bringing an alternative payment method in case of poor mobile signal or technical problems.

Who should I contact about a product I purchased?

Your purchase is made directly from the individual trader, so please contact that business first regarding returns, refunds, faults or product questions. If you cannot identify or contact the trader, please send us the event date, venue, product details and any proof of purchase, and we will try to help you locate them.

Are your events suitable for families?

Yes. Our markets are generally family-friendly, although children must remain supervised by a responsible adult.

Are dogs allowed?

Dog policies are set by each venue. Assistance dogs are welcome in accordance with the venue’s policy and the law. Please check the venue information before travelling with a pet.

Are the venues accessible?

Most of our shopping-centre and town-centre venues have accessible routes, but facilities differ. Please contact us or the venue before your visit if you have a particular access requirement.

Is parking available?

Parking arrangements and charges vary by venue. Please check the event or venue page before travelling.

Are toilets available?

Public toilets are available at many of our host venues, but their location, opening hours and accessibility are managed by the venue.

Will the event go ahead if it rains?

Outdoor events normally continue in ordinary rain. However, we may alter, postpone or cancel an event if high winds, extreme weather or another safety issue makes it unsafe to proceed.

How will I know if an event is cancelled?

Any public cancellation or major change will be announced on our social media pages as soon as reasonably possible. We recommend checking our latest updates before travelling, particularly during severe weather.

Can I take photographs at an event?

General photographs of the event are usually welcome, but please ask a trader before taking close-up photographs of their products, stall or children. Commercial photography requires advance permission.

How can I support the traders?

You can support independent businesses by buying from them, following their pages, sharing their work, leaving reviews and telling friends and family about the event.

 

Becoming a Trader

Who can apply to trade?

We welcome applications from independent makers, artists, crafters, designers, food producers, bakers, gift businesses, clothing and accessories brands, pet businesses and other suitable small businesses.

I am new to markets. Can I still apply?

Yes. First-time traders are very welcome. You will need suitable products, a professional display, the required insurance and safety documents, and your own equipment unless the event listing says otherwise.

Do I need to be a registered limited company?

No. Sole traders, partnerships, limited companies and genuine hobby businesses may apply. Regardless of business structure, you remain responsible for tax, insurance, product safety, licences, registrations and all other legal duties that apply to what you sell.

How do I apply?

Complete the trader registration process and provide accurate information about your business and products. Once accepted, you can use the Trader Portal to view suitable events and make bookings.

Does registering guarantee that I will be accepted?

No. Registration and booking requests are subject to product suitability, availability, category balance, venue restrictions and completion of any required checks.

Do you limit similar traders?

We try to maintain a varied and balanced event. Similar product categories may be limited, but no trader is given complete exclusivity unless this has been agreed in writing.

Can I sell products that I have not made myself?

Our main focus is artisan, handmade and independent products. Carefully selected designed, sourced or specialist products may be considered, but you must describe them honestly during registration. Undisclosed or unsuitable bought-in goods may be refused or removed.

Can I change or add products after I have been accepted?

Please obtain approval before adding a substantially different product range. This helps us protect category balance and check any additional safety or venue requirements.

Can food and drink businesses apply?

Yes, subject to space, venue restrictions and the required food-safety documentation. Catering trailers, hot-food operators and businesses cooking on site can only attend venues that can safely accommodate them.

Can alcohol businesses apply?

Yes, but alcohol sales and sampling are subject to venue approval and licensing requirements. You must tell us exactly what you intend to sell or sample and provide any licences or permissions requested.

Can a catering trailer or horsebox attend?

Only at selected outdoor venues. Some locations accept gazebo-based stalls only, while indoor venues cannot accommodate trailers. Please contact us before booking with a vehicle, trailer or horsebox.

Can charities or community groups attend?

Charities and community organisations may be considered where space and venue rules allow. Please contact us with details of the organisation and proposed activity.

Can direct-selling or franchise businesses attend?

These are considered individually and may not be suitable for every event. You must disclose the company, brand and full product range when applying.

Can I demonstrate a product or provide a service at my stall?

Demonstrations and services require advance approval. They must remain within your pitch, avoid obstructing walkways, and comply with venue, hygiene, insurance, licensing, noise and safety requirements.

Is there a waiting list if my category is full?

Where possible, we keep a waiting list for full events or restricted categories and may contact you if a suitable space becomes available.

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Trader Documents and Legal Requirements

Do I need public liability insurance?

Yes. Traders must hold valid public liability insurance with cover of at least £5 million, unless we confirm a different requirement in writing for a particular event.

Do I need employers’ liability insurance?

If you employ staff, you must hold employers’ liability insurance whenever legally required. You are responsible for confirming which insurance obligations apply to your business.

Do I need a risk assessment?

Yes. You must have a current risk assessment covering your stall, equipment, products and activities. Food, electrical, gas, cooking, demonstrations and other higher-risk activities should be specifically addressed.

When must I provide my documents?

Documents must be supplied when requested and kept valid for every event you attend. Missing, expired or unsuitable documentation may result in your booking being refused or your attendance being cancelled.

What documents do food traders need?

Food traders may be asked for evidence of food-business registration, food-hygiene training or rating, public liability insurance, a food-safety management system, allergen information, risk assessments and any other documents relevant to their operation.

Who is responsible for allergen information?

The trader is fully responsible for giving accurate allergen information, preventing cross-contamination and complying with current food-information law. Required allergen information must be available to customers at the point of sale.

Can I give away food or drink samples?

Sampling requires advance approval and must comply with food hygiene, allergen, licensing, waste and venue rules. Alcohol samples may require additional permission or licensing.

What is required if I use LPG or cooking equipment?

You must declare all LPG, heat and cooking equipment before booking. Where approved, you may be required to provide current gas-safety documentation, suitable fire extinguishers or fire blankets, equipment details and an appropriate risk assessment.

Do electrical items need PAT testing?

Any electrical equipment brought to an event must be safe and properly maintained. A venue may require evidence of current portable appliance testing or other electrical certification before connection is allowed.

Can I sell electrical products?

Only if they comply with all applicable product-safety, conformity, labelling and traceability requirements. You must retain the relevant technical and supplier documentation.

Can I sell toys or children’s products?

Only if the products meet all applicable safety, testing, conformity, labelling and traceability rules. Calling an item a collectible or adding an age recommendation does not remove legal obligations if the product is considered a toy.

Can I sell 3D-printed products?

Yes, provided every item complies with the law that applies to its intended use. Toys, children’s items, food-contact products, electrical products and other regulated goods may require safety assessments, testing, conformity marking, technical files, warnings, batch identification and traceability. Evidence must be available if requested.

Can I sell cosmetics, soaps or beauty products?

Only if the products have been made, assessed, notified, labelled and documented in accordance with the applicable cosmetic-product rules. Traders are responsible for retaining the required safety reports and product records.

Who is responsible for product safety?

The trader is entirely responsible for ensuring that every product is safe, legal, accurately described and properly labelled. Acceptance at an event does not confirm or certify legal compliance.

What happens if my products or documents do not comply?

We may refuse, suspend or cancel a booking, require products to be removed from sale, or ask the trader to leave. Serious concerns may be referred to the venue, local authority, Trading Standards or another appropriate body.

 

Bookings, Prices and Payments

Where can I view pitch prices?

Current prices are displayed in the Trader Portal and on the relevant event listing. Prices vary by venue, pitch size, location and event type.

What is included in the pitch fee?

Unless the listing specifically says otherwise, the fee covers your allocated trading space only. Traders normally provide their own gazebo, tables, chairs, display equipment, lighting and stock as required for that venue.

How do I book an event?

Log in to the Trader Portal, choose the event and pitch option, and complete the booking and payment process. Only book a pitch suitable for your approved products and equipment.

When is my booking confirmed?

Your booking is confirmed when the required registration, approval and payment steps have been completed and you receive confirmation from us. Adding an event to your basket or beginning payment does not reserve a pitch.

I have not received my confirmation email. What should I do?

First check your junk, spam and promotions folders and confirm that the email address on your account is correct. If payment has been taken but no confirmation arrives, contact us with your name, business name, venue and event date.

Can I book several events at once?

Yes. You can book any available events that are suitable for your business. Each booking remains subject to availability and the applicable event terms.

Can I book only one day of a multi-day event?

This depends on the event. Some dates are sold individually while others require a full-event or minimum-day booking. The available options will be shown in the listing.

Can two businesses share one pitch?

Not without written permission. Every business and product range must be registered, approved and insured. Unauthorised pitch sharing or subletting is not allowed.

Can I transfer or sell my pitch to someone else?

No. Bookings cannot be sold, assigned or transferred to another trader without our written approval.

Can I request a particular position?

You may send us a request, but positions cannot be guaranteed. Layouts are based on safety, access, product mix, venue instructions and operational needs and may change up to or during the event.

Can I book extra space or a double pitch?

Where space allows, larger pitches may be available through the Trader Portal or by contacting us. You must book enough space for all stock, equipment, doors, tow bars and working areas.

Do you offer discounts?

Any active offers will be advertised by us and will be subject to their own terms. Discounts cannot normally be added retrospectively after a booking has been completed.

Can I receive an invoice or receipt?

Your booking or payment confirmation acts as your transaction record. If you need additional documentation, please contact us with the booking details.

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Pitches and Equipment

What size is a standard outdoor pitch?

A standard outdoor pitch is generally intended for one 3 metre by 3 metre gazebo unless the event listing states otherwise. Everything must fit safely inside the booked footprint.

Do you provide gazebos, tables or chairs?

Normally no. Traders must bring all equipment required for their stall unless the event listing clearly states that something is provided.

Do I need a gazebo for an outdoor event?

Usually yes. Your gazebo must be strong, well maintained, suitable for commercial outdoor use and able to be safely weighted. Exceptions will be stated in the event information.

Can I use a gazebo at an indoor event?

Usually no. Indoor events generally use table-based stalls without gazebo frames or canopies, but you must follow the specific venue instructions.

How much gazebo weight do I need?

Every gazebo leg must have substantial purpose-made weight, with additional protection used when conditions require it. Exact minimums may vary by site and forecast and will be stated in the setup information. Small water containers, stock boxes and token weights are not considered adequate.

Can I use pegs or stakes?

Do not assume that pegs are allowed. Most shopping-centre and hard-standing locations require weights because the ground cannot be penetrated. Follow the instructions for the individual venue.

Can I attach my gazebo to street furniture or venue property?

Only where our team or the venue has specifically authorised it. Do not tie equipment to buildings, trees, barriers, planters, signs or other property without permission.

Must my gazebo and coverings be fire-retardant?

Where required by the venue or your activity, you must provide fire-retardant equipment and evidence of its rating. Cooking, heating, electrical and higher-risk stalls may be subject to additional requirements.

Do I need table coverings?

Yes. Tables and storage should be covered or screened to create a tidy, professional appearance. Displays must be stable and must not create trip, sharp-edge or falling-object hazards.

Can my display extend outside my pitch?

No. Stock, rails, signs, chairs, doors, guy lines and equipment must remain within the allocated pitch and must not obstruct emergency routes, shop entrances, walkways or neighbouring traders.

Is electricity available?

Electricity is not included unless it is specifically stated and agreed in advance. Never connect to a venue supply without permission.

Can I bring a generator?

Generators are not permitted unless approved in writing before the event. Approved equipment must meet the venue’s noise, fuel, emissions, fire and safety requirements.

Can I bring my own lighting?

Battery-powered lighting is usually the simplest option. Mains-powered lighting may only be used where an approved electricity supply is available and the equipment meets electrical-safety requirements.

Should I bring a trolley?

Yes. Traders should bring a suitable trolley or sack truck, particularly at indoor venues and locations where vehicles cannot stop beside the pitch.

Can I display signs or banners?

Yes, provided they are professional, secure, accurate and kept within your pitch. Signs must not block sightlines, damage venue property or create an obstruction.

 

Before and During the Event

When will I receive setup information?

We normally send the full setup email approximately five to seven days before the event. Please check your junk or spam folder and contact us if it has not arrived close to the event date.

What information is included in the setup email?

It normally includes arrival and setup times, trading hours, access arrangements, unloading instructions, parking information, equipment reminders and any venue-specific rules.

What time should I arrive?

Arrive within the setup window stated in your email and allow enough time to unload, park and finish your display before opening. Times vary by venue.

What should I do if I am running late?

Contact the event team immediately using the details in your setup email. Late vehicle access may not be possible once public areas open, and an unreported absence may be treated as a no-show.

Can I drive directly to my pitch?

Only if the setup instructions permit it. Some venues use loading bays, service yards or timed access, while others require equipment to be moved from a nearby unloading point.

Where do traders park?

Trader parking varies by venue and may be separate from customer parking. Follow the setup email and any staff or security directions. Parking charges remain the trader’s responsibility unless stated otherwise.

Do I need to wear high-visibility clothing?

High-visibility clothing must be worn wherever required, particularly in loading bays, service yards and during vehicle movements. The setup email will identify venue-specific requirements.

Must I trade for the full advertised hours?

Yes. Your stall must be ready before opening and remain open until the official closing time unless the event manager gives permission otherwise.

Can I pack away early if I sell out or the event is quiet?

No. Early packing creates safety risks and affects the event and neighbouring traders. If you sell out, keep the stall presentable and speak to the event manager.

Can I move my allocated position?

No. Do not swap, move or expand a pitch without approval from the event manager.

Can I play music at my stall?

Only with advance permission. Music must not disturb other traders, venue tenants or visitors, and you are responsible for any licence that may be required.

Is Wi-Fi provided?

Do not rely on venue Wi-Fi unless the event information confirms access. Traders should arrange their own data connection and have a backup payment option.

Who is responsible for my stock, money and equipment?

Traders remain responsible for their own stock, cash, vehicles, equipment and personal belongings at all times. Do not leave a stall unattended without suitable cover.

What should I do with rubbish?

Keep your pitch clean throughout the day and remove all rubbish, packaging, food waste and equipment at the end. Do not use venue or shop bins unless permission has been given.

Can I smoke or vape at my stall?

No. Smoking and vaping must only take place in designated areas and never inside a gazebo, near food, fuel, gas, flammable products or public walkways.

What should I do if there is an accident or safety concern?

Stop the unsafe activity if it is safe to do so and notify the event manager or venue security immediately. Cooperate with first aid, incident reporting and any emergency instructions.

What happens in an emergency?

Follow instructions from the event team, venue staff, security or emergency services. Keep emergency exits and access routes clear and do not re-enter an evacuated area until authorised.

Are children allowed to help on a stall?

Children must be closely supervised, remain within the stall area and not enter loading bays or other restricted areas. The trader is responsible for ensuring that their attendance is safe, lawful and permitted by the venue.

Can I bring a pet to my stall?

Only if the venue permits it and we have approved it where necessary. Pets must not create a safety, hygiene or welfare issue and are generally unsuitable around open food preparation.

Who makes decisions on the day?

The event manager has authority over the layout, access, safety and operation of the event. Traders must follow reasonable instructions from our team, the venue, security and emergency services.

 

Cancellations, Changes and Weather

What should I do if I can no longer attend?

Contact us in writing as soon as possible, stating your business name, event and date. Your options will be determined by the cancellation policy and terms that applied when you booked.

Can I move my booking to another date?

A transfer may be considered in line with the current booking terms, notice given and availability. Transfers are not automatic and must be confirmed by us in writing.

Will I receive a refund if I cancel?

Trader cancellations are handled under the terms accepted at the time of booking. Depending on the circumstances and applicable policy, options may include an alternative date, account credit or an eligible refund less any stated administration charge.

What happens if I do not attend and have not contacted you?

Failure to attend is treated as a no-show. The pitch fee will not normally be refunded or transferred, and repeated no-shows may affect future bookings.

What happens if you cancel an event?

We will contact booked traders using the details held on their account and explain the available options in line with the applicable terms. These may include a transfer, credit or refund, depending on the reason for cancellation.

Can an event date, time or location change?

Yes. Events depend on venue access, local authority requirements, safety and circumstances outside our control. We will give affected traders as much notice as reasonably possible.

When will a weather decision be made?

We monitor forecasts closely, but conditions can change quickly. A decision will be made when reliable information is available and may sometimes be necessary at short notice or during the event.

What weather conditions may cause cancellation?

High winds, lightning, flooding, snow, ice, extreme heat or any condition that makes structures, access or trading unsafe may lead to changes or cancellation. Safety decisions consider the venue, exposure, forecast and professional guidance rather than rain alone.

Can I decide not to attend because of the weather?

You may choose not to attend, but if the event is operating, this is normally treated as a trader cancellation and the standard booking terms will apply. Please tell us immediately if you will not attend.

Can the event manager close my stall during an event?

Yes. A stall may be suspended or closed where there is a safety concern, missing documentation, unsuitable equipment, prohibited products, serious misconduct or failure to follow reasonable instructions.

 

Promotion and Communication

Will you advertise the event?

We promote events through a mixture of social media, websites, email, venue channels, posters, local listings and other appropriate marketing. The exact campaign varies by venue and event.

Does booking guarantee that my business will receive an individual trader spotlight?

No. We cannot guarantee an individual feature for every trader, but we regularly share trader content as part of our event promotion.

How can I be considered for a trader spotlight?

Send clear, high-quality photographs or short vertical videos, your business name, social media links and a concise description of what you sell. Content should be free from unrelated text, watermarks or third-party material you do not have permission to use.

Should I promote the event too?

Yes, please. Sharing the official event posts and telling your customers where to find you helps build attendance and benefits the whole market.

Can I use The Artisan Street Fayre logo?

Only use official artwork supplied or approved by us. Do not alter the logo or suggest that your business is owned, endorsed or certified by The Artisan Street Fayre.

Will photographs or videos be taken at the event?

Event photography or filming may take place for promotional, operational or venue purposes. If you have a specific concern, please speak to the event manager as early as possible.

How will important trader updates be sent?

Updates may be sent by email, through the Trader Portal or app, by telephone, or through official trader communication channels. Traders are responsible for keeping their contact details current and checking messages before each event.

 

Still Need Help?

If your question is not answered here, please contact us with your business name, the venue and event date so we can help quickly.

• Website: www.spgeventsnw.co.uk

• Trader Portal: www.artisanstreetfayre.co.uk

• General and North West enquiries: spg_events@outlook.com

• Yorkshire and East Midlands enquiries: yorkshire@spgeventsnw.co.uk