Hey, stallholders! This post is a fresh take on our classic 2011 article, now packed with updated market stall tips and tricks to help you shine at your next market. Whether you’re a newbie or well-seasoned, these ten gems are here to help you make your stall unforgettable.
1. Nail Down Your Product Line-Up
First things first: what’s the vibe of your stall? You’ll need a mix of goodies that catch eyes, and appeal to a range of customers, and they all need to pull their weight, you can’t rely on one item to carry the load!
Aim for a little something for everyone:
- Bread and Butter items – Think affordable, high-turnover products that attract curious shoppers.
- Mid-range gems – These are your crowd-pleasers with solid profit margins, making up most of your range.
- Show-stopping highlights – Your “wow” pieces that draw people in, even if they sell less frequently.
For example, if you’re an artist, your framed prints can be the highlights, unframed prints the mid-range, and greeting cards the bread and butter.


2. Balance Your Display Like a Pro
Your stall should be like a magnet—pulling people in and making them want to stick around. Keep things balanced at eye level, with some higher and lower points for variety.
If you’re using a table, think vertical! Use shelves or stands to make everything visible without customers craning their necks. And remember, less is sometimes more! Don’t overcrowd or make your stall feel like a treasure hunt.


3. Make Your Stall Insta-Worthy
Your stall’s look is your first impression, so make it count! Ask yourself: Why would a customer choose me over someone else?
Check out our Pinterest or take a stroll through other markets for inspo. Your display doesn’t need to break the bank, get crafty with recycled materials or thrifty finds. Just make sure it matches your brand and showcases your products beautifully.
For example, if you’re a regular stallholder, keep your display fresh to attract repeat visitors, swap out colours with seasonal flowers, or repaint your backdrop or visual merchandising props every six months!
4. Be Unforgettable
Let’s face it, markets are a whirlwind. Shoppers might love your stuff but forget your name by the time they get home. Solution? Brand everything!
Use signage, labels, business cards, and QR codes to make sure people can find you later. Bonus points if you include where they can shop online or how to follow you on socials.
Bonus Tip: Encourage shoppers to join your mailing list or follow you on socials by offering a giveaway or an exclusive follower discount!

5. Make Paying a Breeze
Make it as easy as possible for your customers to pay! Offer both digital and cash payments, and consider an EFTPOS terminal for convenience. For higher-priced items, you could provide buy-now-pay-later options or even delivery services.
If your products are bespoke or handmade, think about taking pre-orders. Whatever options you offer, let your customers know, and add a simple sign to your stall to make it clear and hassle-free for them to buy.
6. Flaunt Your Stuff
If you sell wearable items, wear them! Seeing your product in action is way more convincing than it sitting on a hanger. No wearables? No worries. Get creative with displays, photos, or even short videos that show your product in use.
Bonus Tip: Share the love with fellow stallholders! Offer them a discount, do a product swap, or lend them something to wear during market weekend. Wearing or displaying items from other stalls is a great way to spark conversations and foster a strong sense of community.


7. Sweeten the Deal
Market specials are a great way to win over new customers. Think exclusive offers, fun bundles, or even freebies with purchase. Just keep it on-brand—no one wants your stall looking like a bargain bin.
Bonus Tip: Lucky dips are always a hit, offering a lower price point and a bit of a thrill for customers to snag a surprise.
8. Smile, You’re on Market Camera
A great attitude goes a long way! Even if sales are slow, greet everyone with a smile and be approachable. Not everyone will want to chat, and that’s okay. Let your vibe be warm and welcoming, your customers will remember how you made them feel.

9. Stock Up Like a Boss
Running out of stock? Big no-no. Always bring more than you think you’ll need. If something does sell out, keep a sample on display and take pre-orders. Your stall should always look full and ready to go!
10. Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Once the market’s over, keep the momentum going. Add a mailing list sign-up to your stall, promote your socials, and follow up with customers who’ve left their details. Markets aren’t just about sales—they’re about building relationships.


Markets are all about connection, creativity, and, let’s be honest, a little hustle. So go out there, have fun, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Need more advice? Send us an email or a DM; we’re always here for our stallholder community.
Good luck, and happy selling!
📸 The photos in this blog post were captured by Samee Lapham.