As the 250th year in the Covered Market nears an end, Oxford City Council welcomes new traders, celebrates significant anniversaries, and showcases a series of achievements by the market’s businesses.
New traders join the market in time for Christmas
In the past couple of months, the market has welcomed a further two local businesses, each bringing exciting new products to the already diverse mix. The market occupancy is currently at just over 90%.
Again Garments
Known for its wide selection of stylish, affordable vintage garments, Again Garments has established a loyal following in Oxford. Customers can expect pre-loved pieces from all eras, with a focus on sustainable and fashionable clothing for all seasons.
James Taylor Photo Art
A passion for photography and creativity inspired James Taylor to transition from an office job to a full-time artist. With experience selling at prestigious venues like Blenheim Palace and John Lewis, James brings his vibrant prints and stationery to the Covered Market. The shop is offering exclusive opening promotions and special offers for Christmas shoppers.
Milestones and achievements celebrated by existing traders
As well as new traders, existing businesses are celebrating their own milestones and successes.
- Il Corno celebrated its first anniversary in November. Reflecting on their journey, the family-run Neapolitan eatery said: “This year has been a dream come true. We couldn’t be happier with the support we’ve received from the market community.”
- Browns Café, a market institution, marks its centenary this year with a special exhibition at the Westgate Centre and a commemorative video celebrating 100 years of serving Oxford residents.
- Crystal Spirit Emporium and Y.O.U Underwear also celebrated their anniversaries, with Y.O.U recently being nominated for Social Enterprise Women’s Champion of the Year at the Social Enterprise UK Awards
- John Gowing Jewellers was named one of the top 150 inspirational independent businesses in the UK by Retail Jeweller Magazine.
- The Garden of Oxford has raised £1,400 this year through sales of tote bags for the Oxfordshire Homeless Movement. Proceeds continue to support this vital cause while promoting the Covered Market.
- Tap Social Movement, which runs The Market Tap, has been named Consumer Facing Social Enterprise of the Year at the Social Enterprise UK Awards.
Footfall
With all of these successes, it’s no surprise that footfall has continued to be ahead of previous years. There were over one million visitors during September to November this year, compared to only 900,000 in 2023 and 2019, the last pre-Covid year.
Extended opening hours, the most diverse mix of traders, and community-focused events have all contributed to making the Covered Market a vibrant and bustling destination for residents and visitors and the Council is committed to keeping it that way.
Looking to the future
In 2025, the Council will continue to welcome new businesses to the market, and is expecting the return of annual events, including Oxford Folk Festival and May Day celebrations. There will also be a continued push for Market Memories, building on the anniversary momentum.
The Council also expects to take the next steps in the Covered Market redevelopment plans with public consultation and planning applications, as well as a County Council decision on the pedestrian and cycle zone changes to Market Street, which is expected in the Autumn.
Residents can stay up to date with everything happening in the Covered Market on the Oxford Covered Market website.
Comment
“The Covered Market is a treasure at the heart of Oxford. From welcoming exciting new businesses to celebrating long-standing successes, the market showcases the strength of our local community and economy.
“The market remains a fantastic mix of the old and the new, with very different offers for all its many visitors and we remain committed to supporting traders and ensuring the market thrives for future generations.”
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council
“I’m most looking forward to joining the other fab local businesses and meeting all the lovely customers here!
“It’s such a special place - a real community and a major destination in Oxford, and everyone here is so friendly and welcoming!”
James Taylor, owner of James Taylor Photo Art
“We're thrilled to be a part of the Covered Market, as it's such a vibrant and historic space that aligns with our passion for pre-loved clothing.
Looking to the future of our shop we are excited to build a community of like-minded people who share our love for sustainable pieces. We want to create a space where customers feel not just like shoppers, but part of a community that values individuality, quality, and the stories behind clothes.”
Chloe Illingworth, co-owner Again Garments
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