Two decades ago, the famous B&B Market at the HillFox Value Centre was one of the busiest flea-markets in town, according to stallholders who have witnessed the number of feet passing through the market decline over the years.

The disappointing turnout every weekend has been attributed to poor management by concerned stallholders who have been struggling to make a profit over the years.

A Northsider journalist visited the market recently and chatted with some of the stallholders, who shared their honest opinions about its struggles.

One of the stallholders, who has been part of the part of the market since its inception 22 years ago, cited what he believes are the reasons for the downturn. “Mismanagement is the key,” he said. “Management refuses to listen to its clients, thus making things very difficult for us,” he went on.

A letter sent to the Northsider:

https://roodepoortnorthsider.co.za/284966/the-flea-market-needs-an-urgent-upgrade/

He added, “The market used to have over 300 stalls, but now only about 30 are left”.

Another stallholder, who has one of biggest stalls at the market, attributed the market’s poor performance to a lack of marketing from management’s side. “The problem here is lack of advertising to attract potential customers. Fewer and fewer people turn up every weekend. Some customers even thought the market no longer existed,” she lamented.

She also reflected on what a hive of activity the market used to be, building up to the festive season. “However,” she said, “it doesn’t look as if things will improve in time for this year’s festive season.”

An understanding stallholder, Danie Page, who has also enjoyed many years at the market, told Northsider that the fault lies partly with the economy and partly with management. “The main problem is the economy. Things have become expensive over the years and people can no longer afford them.

“However, we are under a roof, out of the weather, in a spacious setting surrounded by suburbs – [surely] the market’s management can do something to draw the customers and keep the market alive,” he said.

The Northsider has approached the market’s management for comment, and will keep its readers informed.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at northsider@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.

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