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Vendors Scramble After Flea Market Announces Possible Closure
AUSTIN, Texas – One of Austin’s longest running flea markets may close at the end of the month. That decision is forcing vendors at the Austin Country Market to scramble to find a plan B that will help them make ends meet.
“My family has been here since 1995,” said Lali Palacios, manager of the “R and R” audio booth at the flea market.
Palacios says the majority of her customers are Hispanic or Latinx and her shop is where they feel comfortable asking questions with someone who speaks the same language.
“I’ve been here for so long. I know every single product that I sell in my store. I know it in and out so I can give you very specific details about anything here,” she said.
Beyond a place to do business, this flea market—or, pulga as they're called in Spanish—is part of a bigger family.
“There’s been so many parties here—like we’ve had a quincenera here. Just so many things,” she said.
But now there’s a chance the heart of this community won’t be around much longer for new memories. The market manager said on social media the owners are considering closing but they will re-evaluate the decision at the end of the month.
“I have a little bit more time to think of plans, preparations,” said Palacios.
The same can't be said for other vendors at the market.
“A lot of people have been here longer than I’ve been alive. Like the lady here that sells fruit—she started out with my parents. She’s been here longer than I have. Her son and I have known each other for, like, ever. We literally grew up together here at the flea market,” said Palacios.
There is a lot of history in the aisles and it’s unclear what will happen next, but at least for Palacios it’s important to live in the now.
“This is very reminiscent of the little pulgas in Mexico, so this feels like a slice of home,” she said.
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Volume Retail Launches New Flea Market for Toronto's King West Neighbourhood at stackt market
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As lockdown restrictions ease, Volume Retail launches a new outdoor market at stackt market, highlighting independent businesses in Toronto's Fashion District.
The historic Fashion District, located between Front St, Queen St, Bathurst St, and Spadina Ave., was home to textile and fabric factories in the early 20th Century. Today, it’s one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
The first Fashion District Flea will feature art, skincare, wellness, and greeting cards from vendors. The market will also feature the launch of Plantiful and Co., a plant boutique and plant styling company got their start during COVID-19.
Volume’s General Store at stackt market showcases dozens of independent businesses from brands across Canada. The company’s goal is to support independent companies with physical retail space at stackt that includes store management, rent, staff and operations.
Through the Flea, Volume hopes to extend new opportunities to bring vendors and independent businesses together to connect with the local community in one of Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
"After a tumultuous few months, it has been incredibly rewarding seeing the consumer’s mindset shift to supporting independent retailers and businesses. It feels great to give them a place to shine,” says King. “It's one thing to know you are supporting independent businesses with your purchase; it’s even more rewarding when you get to meet them at a market like this."
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