The Burnley Artisan Market significantly boosts town centre footfall compared to non-event Saturdays, data from Charter Walk has shown.
The shopping centre has been monitoring the figures since the Artisan Market was introduced in September 2021, and on average 3,000 extra people visit Burnley town centre for the event in relation to a normal shopping day.
Recently installed footfall counters which have been funded by Burnley Business Improvement District (BID) have shown a similar trend, with May’s Artisan Market bringing in thousands more people than previous Saturdays.
Since its inception it has grown in size and popularity and now regularly brings visitors into the town from all over Lancashire.
May’s event was the biggest yet too with over 60 independent businesses in attendance who traded to the backdrop of live music and a craft area for children.
Delivered in a partnership between Independent Street, Burnley BID, Burnley Council and Charter Walk, the main objective of establishing the market was to encourage more people from a wider demographic to discover Burnley and the data has been welcomed by BID project manager Andrew Dean.
“Artisan Market day has always felt busy and we’ve had a fantastic reaction on social media but it’s great to see this backed up by footfall data,” said Andy.
“Through this event we want to entice as many people into Burnley as possible to not only take a look at the market but also uncover the brilliant businesses we have here, and I’m pleased with how it’s gone up to now.”
Independent Street’s Lisa Cowley added: “This event has quickly evolved into the must-visit monthly artisan market in Lancashire and pulls people in from far and wide. I’m excited to see where it goes from here as it continues to grow and prosper.”
The next event will take place on Saturday 4th June when it runs alongside a number of activities which are being organised to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
So far the day is scheduled to feature an appearance from the warrior Britannia, music from a Bagpiper and the Burnley Alliance Silver Band, a march by the Pendle Sons of Ulster and the chance for people to have a royal photo taken using props.
There is lots going on at Charter Walk too including performances from a 1940’s style band, a walkaround from a Princess and the chance for visitors to relax in a specially created picnic area featuring fake grass, fences and picnic tables.
To stay up-to-date with the latest news relating to June’s event, make sure you’re following Discover Burnley on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverBurnleyBID.