Teenage Market brings 22 young entrepreneurs and £2k boost to Poulton
Teenage entrepreneurs took centre stage at Teanlowe Shopping Centre as The Teenage Market returned to Poulton.
The Teanlowe Shopping Centre in Poulton was transformed into a vibrant hub of youth-led creativity on Saturday 7 February as The Teenage Market initiative showcased the talents of 22 young entrepreneurs from across the area.
Across 13 stalls, teenagers sold handmade products, creative goods and gifts, generating more than £2,000 from the sale of over 600 items.
For many, the event was about far more than takings. Eleven-year-old Ava described the day as a “great opportunity”, while 14-year-old Claudia praised the “friendly and supportive” customers.
All participants reported increased confidence and improved business skills with every young trader keen to return for future events.
Andrea George, Chair of Place For Youth CIC, which delivers The Teenage Market, said: “Seeing young people take real ownership of their ideas, build confidence, and make meaningful income from their creativity is exactly the kind of opportunity we exist to deliver at Place For Youth.”
A standout success came from students at Blackpool Sixth Form College who launched a new candle business after previously volunteering at the market.
Supported by a £150 small business grant from Place For Youth, the team sold out of stock, making more than £300 to reinvest in expanding their range.
Commenting on the support provided, 17 year-old Shrika Waghilkar said: “The small business grant we received from Place For Youth removed a major cost barrier for us at the start of our business journey and gave us the confidence to properly develop our candle products.”
Councillor Peter Le-Marinel, Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy and Economic Development, said: “Seeing so many talented young people take the leap into trading at the Poulton Teenage Market has been fantastic.
“Events like this are incredibly important for nurturing confidence, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, giving young traders the chance to test their ideas, meet customers and build real‑world experience in a supportive environment.
“After such a successful day in Poulton, we’re already looking forward to the next Teenage Market in Garstang and to celebrating even more of Wyre’s young entrepreneurs.”
The event also welcomed Year 7 students from Montgomery Academy as part of their Passion Project programme, giving them first-hand experience of entrepreneurship in action.
Delivered in partnership with Wyre Council, Booths and Teanlowe Shopping Centre and supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, organisers are now looking ahead to the next Teenage Market in Garstang on 21 February.