At The Finders Keepers Market, we’re dedicated to being more sustainable at every event. In 2024, we introduced a bunch of new initiatives, and we’re working to introduce more this year. One simple way we can make a difference is by inspiring our stallholders and any small business that does markets to embrace sustainable business practices. Here are five easy tips to help make your market stall more eco-friendly, plus a bonus tip to get your community involved!
1. Ditch Plastic Packaging
Switch to eco-friendly packaging like paper bags, bamboo containers, or those cool plant-based wraps and tapes. They might cost a little more upfront, but they make a HUGE difference in reducing plastic waste and encourage people to shop sustainably.
2. DIY & Upcycle
Some of the most memorable and unique stalls stand out because of their upcycled props and furniture. From rustic display cases to tiled plinths and colourful spray-painted milk crates, we love to see stalls with lots of DIY character. Many stallholders sell or upgrade their props on Facebook Marketplace, so you can find some awesome second-hand stuff without breaking the bank. Looking for market stall inspiration? Check out our Pinterest.
3. Use Natural Fibres
Choose biodegradable fabrics like linen, cotton, or hemp for tablecloths and backdrops. These natural fibres are a more sustainable choice than synthetics and give a beautiful, organic aesthetic to your stall. Unlike stiff, rigid polyester and vinyl, these fabrics soften and develop character over time.
4. BYO Lunchbox
Pack lunch and snacks in reusable containers, and don’t forget your refillable water bottle and coffee cup! We have water refill stations at the market, so you can easily fill up whenever you need to. This is a great way to save money and reduce single-use items. It’s also handy for stallholders operating solo or during busy times when it’s tough to step away from your stall for a bite to eat! Check out our best market snacks list for ideas on what to bring.
5. Invest in Reusable Storage
One of the biggest changes you can make is switching to reusable crates, tubs, and boxes for getting your stuff to and from the market. We see lots of stallholders even reusing their bubble wrap, newspaper and cardboard boxes from bump in, for bump out. Leaving extra packaging behind after the market is super wasteful, and totally avoidable with a bit of planning.
Bonus Tip: Get Your Customers Involved!
Use your social media to remind your friends, fans and followers to bring their own reusable bags, water bottles and keep cups when they come to the market. It can be as simple as including a reminder in your caption.
By embracing some of these simple steps, you’ll reduce waste and create a stall that resonates with customers who value mindful making and thoughtful buying. Small, intentional actions can lead to meaningful change, helping us build a thriving market community. Did we forget something or do you have another sustainable market tip? Send us a DM and let us know!
Find more Stallholder Resources & Tips and get inspired by following us on Instagram and TikTok.
The photos in this post were captured by Samee Lapham.