The Red Deer Downtown Business Association is looking for a new partner to take over the operation of the weekly downtown market.
"In recent years, the downtown market has faced challenges, including a decrease in vendor participation and attendees due to the pandemic, work-from-home trends and market saturation," states a media release issued by the DBA on Thursday, Jan. 30.
"The DBA is now seeking a partner to ensure the market's continued success and growth."
The downtown market has been a staple in Red Deer for 13 years. The weekly market on Little Gatez Avenue aims to offer a diverse range of consumable goods and supporting local vendors. It is an Alberta Farmers Market Association (AFMA) accredited market.
The DBA is committed to providing the following financial and in-kind resources to support a new partner:
— Funding
— Road closure staffing
— Marketing
— Navigation of municipal requirements
— Knowledge transfer
— Collaboration on a transition plan to become an independent operator
Interested partners must have or be working towards not-for-profit status, as required by AFMA. They must also identify a market manager to run the event and maintain AFMA accreditation.
Those interested in managing the Downtown Market can send inquiries to info@downtownreddeer.com. Applications can be made online no later than Feb. 28 at downtownreddeer.com.
"We look forward to working with a new partner to continue bringing a vibrant market experience to Downtown Red Deer," the DBA stated in a media release.
"For over 40 years, the Red Deer DBA has been dedicated to driving foot traffic into the downtown area to create economic vibrancy through promotion, beautification, placemaking and events. The DBA supports event organizers and delivers its own calendar of events, including the Downtown Market, Ross Street Patio musical entertainment, North Pole Stroll and Polar Glow."
