South Melbourne Market attracts record numbers


The South Melbourne Market has attracted a record number of visitors to the City of Port Phillip in 2013/14.

More than 3.83 million people visited the Market in 2013/14, up from the previous year’s 3.76 million according to the Market’s annual report, which was presented at last night’s Council meeting.

Mayor Amanda Stevens said in a tough year for retail, South Melbourne Market has beaten expectations.

“Melbourne’s oldest continuing marketplace provides visitors with so much more than the fresh produce and the Market stalls it’s famed for,” Cr Stevens said.

“An increasing number of live music performances, food and cultural festivals, industry workshops and a growing school holiday program are bringing more people to the Market and to Port Phillip.

“More foot traffic has led to an 11 per cent increase in the Market’s income, up from $5.04 million the previous financial year to $5.6 million.”

Cr Stevens said the popularity of the LG Kitchen Cooking Classes, which attracted 1300 people in 2013/14, was a big contributor to new revenue, generating more than $70,000 income.

While the Market continues to grow, it’s also reducing its environmental impact.

Solar panels installed in 2013 were connected to meters in June 2014 and will produce approximately 22,848kWh annually, saving 28.1 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

The Market continues to recycle between 60 and 65 per cent of all waste and in 2013/14 stallholders donated more than 19.2 tonnes of fresh produce to food charity organisation SecondBite.

Looking ahead, Cr Stevens said visitors can expect to find plenty of fresh and exciting experiences at the Market this summer, with 17 new and refurbished stalls opening between now and early next year.

The annual report can be accessed at http://www.southmelbournemarket.com.au/about/governance.

For more information visit City of Port Phillip