Council Invites Traders to Apply for 2026 Artisan Markets Initiative

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is inviting artists, makers, food producers and creative enterprises to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to take part in its refreshed Artisan Markets Programme for 2026.

Running across key locations within the district - Newcastle, Downpatrick and Warrenpoint - the Artisan Markets will bring together high-quality local producers, creators and small businesses, offering them an opportunity to showcase their work, reach new customers and contribute to thriving town centres.

The Council also welcomes applications from local food trucks and mobile catering businesses, including those offering tea, coffee, ice cream and other high-quality food and drink produce. 

The Council will open the Expression of Interest process from 10 March to 31 March 2026 and all potential traders must complete an EOI form in order to be considered for participation in any Council-run Artisan Market throughout the year.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “Artisan markets play a vital role in supporting small businesses, stimulating footfall and celebrating the creativity that exists across our district. These markets bring our towns and villages to life and we are delighted to once again open our doors to talented makers, producers and traders who want to be part of this growing programme. We encourage both new and returning traders to submit an Expression of Interest during the application window.”

The Artisan Markets Initiative offers participants access to high-visibility trading opportunities supported by Council promotion, themed events and marketing activity. This includes social media campaigns, on-site branding, cross-promotion with town-centre initiatives and opportunities to take part in special seasonal markets.

While submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee a trading space, applicants will be assessed based on product quality, sector variety, geographic spread and the overall balance needed to create a vibrant market experience.

The Expression of Interest form will be live from Tuesday 10 March at 9am:
www.newrymournedown.org/trading-at-artisan-markets

Alternatively, traders can contact the Council’s Business Support team at:
business@nmandd.org