We can’t get stalls at festival, say local traders

Rochdale based traders say they are struggling to get stalls at this year’s Feel Good Festival.

The festival, which runs in September, is filled with a variety of stalls, typically foreign food and drink. However, one trader, who has found it very difficult, almost impossible to get a stall is calling for the system to be made easier.

The trader, who doesn’t want to be named, said despite sending several emails to Rochdale Council and Rochdale Town Centre Management there has been no reply.

The stall holder also said there is no information available for local people who may want to hold a stall.

The trader said: “This is being held in Rochdale, so why can’t I get a stall? I thought it was meant to be local.

“There are lots of people who can’t get stalls.

“There should be an easier, simpler way for local people to get a stall.

“Unless you know somebody at the council you get nothing.

“There is no fair process.”

A statement from Rochdale Town Centre Management reads: “Businesses in the borough who want to get involved with this year’s Rochdale Feel Good Festival need to register their interest now.

“Rochdale Town Centre Management are encouraging businesses to consider staging their own mini event, demo or promotion, and in return will promote it in the festival programme.”

Event Manager Debbie O’Brien said she is looking for imaginative ideas to ensure as many businesses as possible benefit from the thousands of people expected to attend the festival this summer:

“We are keen to involve as many as possible.

“There is also the chance for local traders to have a stall or stand on the big festival market, and food traders are especially encouraged to apply.

“To find out how your business could get involved, email suzy@rochdaletcm.co.uk”

The complainant said the stall set up for the event is being handled by a Liverpool based company.

Rochdale Online asked Rochdale Council to confirm this; a spokesperson said there isn’t a Liverpool company involved but Bradford Council are sourcing traders to fill in any gaps that can’t be met locally.

The spokesperson apologised to those that have not yet had a response and put the delay down to a high volume of enquires, adding that emails are being answered and there’s still three months to go before the festival, leaving enough time to consider requests and allocate space.

The spokesperson also said that specific requirements have to be met to hold a stall, such as being a recognised market trader. All requests will be responded to and those who have requested a stall will be told of the requirements needed following a meeting next week.