Independent craft businesses in Salford says the cost of living crisis has hit their trade.
At Salford Makers Market many business owners noted how the crisis has impacted them in different ways, from the rising cost of materials, to customers having less disposable income.
The market, which was held in the New Adelphi building at Salford’s Peel Park, was open to independent crafters of all ages and product.
One jewellery stall owner at the market said: “I’ve been trying to get as many craft fairs in as possible this year because it’s been so hard to live off just the student loan that I have already.
“I’ve not been able to get a job yet because of my timetable so this is the thing I’m sticking to, doing different craft fairs and bits and bobs.
“It’s not a very reliable source of income so it’s a little bit difficult, but hopefully in the future it’ll get a little bit better.”
For large scale independent businesses, relief schemes and government help was offered, but for these largely solo, part-time stall owners they have been left to their own devices.
Another stall owner said: “It’s probably even less of a good time to do it because people have less disposable income.
“A lot of the prices of the stuff we’ve used has gone up, so the cost of the product has gone up massively, the magazine price has doubled.”
Some stalls have been having to change the prices of their products to make them more appealing and affordable, with one saying the cost of living crisis has been “an inspiration” for her prices.
“What I’m making, I know everyone can’t spend a fiver right now. Things that are £1 or 50p or even little freebies, it’s more important than ever to have things like that.
“I’m looking to do as many markets as possible really, I’m really keen to get out there because my products are quite cheap so people don’t have to spend a bomb to buy something.”
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