Teenage Markets in Warwickshire
Teenage Markets have become one of Warwickshire's most successful youth enterprise initiatives, helping young people develop confidence, skills and entrepreneurial experience while bringing fresh energy into town centres.
The journey began when Teenage Markets were introduced through the Warwickshire Towns Network Conference in 2023 where North Warwickshire Borough Council picked up the idea and established its own Teenage Markets programme, funded through UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment. The markets here have gone from strength to strength and are now a well-established feature in the local events calendar, providing regular opportunities for young traders, creators and performers to showcase their talents and gain valuable real-world experience.
Enabled through funding from Warwickshire County Council and building on the success and learnings in North Warwickshire, the concept has now spread across the county, with new markets and events emerging all over the county, including Rugby, Nuneaton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Kenilworth and Warwick and with more to be developed. Each event creates opportunities for young people to sell products, test business ideas, perform in public and connect with their local communities.
The markets have attracted strong participation from young entrepreneurs and performers, whilst generating excellent engagement with local people and through social media channels and local press coverage. From handmade crafts and artwork to fashion, photography, food and live performances, Warwickshire's Teenage Markets are helping to showcase the creativity and talent of the county's young people. The inspiring stories emerging from these events continue to attract media attention and demonstrate the positive impact that youth enterprise can have on both individuals and town centres.
Now operating as part of Place4Youth CIC, a national initiative supporting young people to connect with their communities, develop skills and explore enterprise opportunities, Teenage Markets continue to deliver benefits for participants, visitors and businesses alike. As well as creating opportunities for young people, the events help increase footfall, animate public spaces and contribute to vibrant, welcoming town centres.
Warwickshire County Council and the Warwickshire Towns Network are keen to support the continued growth of Teenage Markets across the county and can help local organisations access equipment, branding, operational guidance, communications support and connections to the national Teenage Markets network.
Do you know a young person who would like to become a trader? They can register on the Teenage Markets website to be informed about local upcoming events.
Interested in hosting a Teenage Market?
If you are a town council, BID, school, community organisation, event organiser or local partnership interested in bringing a Teenage Market to your area, you can reach out to Teenage Markets or email towns@warwickshire.gov.uk
YouTube - The Teenage Market at Love Rugby Festival, Saturday 4 July 2026
