The brouhaha surrounding the sudden cancellation of the last Welkom Flea Market before the end of 2023 does in no way mean the end of this fixed event on the city’s social calendar.
“The Welkom Publicity Association (WPA) would like to apologise to all Welkom market exhibitors for the last-minute cancellation of their last market.
“We were hoping to receive a last-minute influx of bookings, which did not happen. But we are not closing, and will continue to host the monthly market – as we realise the importance of this event,” says Dulcie Harris, executive board member of the WPA.
The Welkom Flea Market is more than 40 years old, and is believed to be the second oldest in the country.
“This is definitely the oldest in the Free State, and a market that will never be cancelled without proper consultation,” Harris continues.
She says the market overheads are much higher than that of any pop-up market, as there are salaries to be paid, and ad hoc staff, storage costs, licenses to play music in public, and many more expenses to be considered. The licences for the public music cost more than R3 000 per month.
The current market venue is designed specifically for the Welkom Flea Market, with wide walkways and designated stall plots. There are electrical points strategically placed.
The venue caters for all and is also disability friendly. Safe parking and medical response is on hand at all markets.
“The safety of our exhibitors plays a key role in our planning,” says Harris.
“Planning in the new year will include restructuring the layout to be a more consumer-friendly set-up, and to always ensure the safety of both visitors and exhibitors.”
