Thousands of shoppers flock to Aberdeen Christmas Market

Organised by Aberdeen Inspired, the indoor market opened at Bon Accord Aberdeen on Thursday and attracted 5,519 visitors between then and Sunday.

Almost 50 businesses – ranging from small independent makers and producers to national high street brands such as Lush cosmetics – have signed up for the market, which runs until December 23.

The market will showcase products and services from around 25 socially distanced stallholders each weekend, with a one-way system to provide a safe space for everyone.

As well as giving festive shoppers access to a huge array of products, such as gin, artwork, jewellery and handmade sweet treats, the market is also raising money for Charlie House, with £1,500 being raised over the weekend.

A further £10,000 will go to the charity as Aberdeen Inspired is donating all the stall fees directly to support its work with babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions.

Traders welcomed the opportunity to safely showcase their wares and spread some festive cheer.

Kim McConnachie of From Scotland, which sells Scottish drinks, said: “People are really supporting local businesses which is amazing, and we have had our best sales at an Aberdeen market ever this week.

“Market traders have needed this as there have not been many opportunities to sell this year. Aberdeen was desperate for something like this and the customers have loved it. It has been a relaxed atmosphere despite the current restrictions and safety measures, and I think people have appreciated being able to shop in such a safe environment. It has been extremely well run and organised.”

Lynne Wallace, who runs baby and children’s clothing company Tots Gear, also experienced strong sales over the weekend.

“It has made a huge difference allowing traders to be able to sell their products. With my products people like to look at them in person and buying online is just not the same experience,” she said. “Sales have greatly increased on last year which gives a much-needed boost to local businesses such as mine.”

Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said the market was helping to bring visitors into the city centre to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

“It’s fantastic to see so many people visiting the indoor Christmas Market and taking the opportunity to choose gifts in person while supporting local, independent traders. We are delighted to have welcomed so many shoppers over the first weekend and for many traders to have reported bumper sales is just brilliant,” he said. “This is so encouraging and we look forward to seeing many more shoppers over the coming weeks.

“As well as offering small, local businesses an opportunity to showcase their products to a new audience, we have made sure the space is socially distanced and compliant with current guidelines to create a safe, festive shopping experience for everyone.

“While Christmas might look a little different this year, the Christmas Market is attracting people to the city centre to not only shop there but also enjoy all the city has to offer over the holiday season, including the wider retail offering, a chance to meet with friends and family in our cafes and restaurants and the festive light trail.”

Located next to TopShop on the ground floor of Bon Accord Aberdeen, the market will operate from 10am to 6pm over four Thursday-Sunday weekends until December 20. It will also be open from Monday, December 21 until Wednesday, December 23.

For details about the opening hours and participating stallholders in the Christmas Market, as well as the new Aberdeen Gift Card, visit www.aberdeeninspired.com