NMTF Young Traders Regional Final to be held in Barnsley for the second year

On Saturday 1 August 2026, Barnsley Market will host the NMTF’s Yorkshire and Humber Young Trader Market Regional Final for the second year running. Following on from Barnsley Markets recent award win, naming them Best Large Indoor Market at the NABMA Great British Market Awards 2026 and the success of last year’s event, this year’s Regional Final will be held in the town centre for the second time.

The Young Traders Market Campaign is a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the retail sector utilising our treasured markets as a foundation for their success. With local heats taking place right across Yorkshire and Humber, providing young traders a chance to secure a spot at the Regional Final, which will take place on The Glass Works Square to coincide with Yorkshire Day.

The event, sponsored by Yorkshire Rose Holidays, is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the remarkable attributes of Yorkshire and Humber’s young entrepreneurs by highlighting their talents. The regional final will showcase an impressive array of young traders demonstrating their skills, each hoping to represent Yorkshire and Humber at the National Final in Stratford-upon-Avon at the end of August.

The event will run from 10am to 4pm, with the awards being handed out at 12pm on the Saturday. Judging the competition will be Katie Slatter, previous winner and Young Trader, Barnsley’s Young Mayor Tamsin Brooke, David Mills from Yorkshire Rose Holidays and Leonie Briggs, Founder of Amazelabs. The event will also have live music throughout the day to entertain the crowds.

Councillor Andy Cudworth, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Assets, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the NMTF Yorkshire and Humber Young Trader Market Regional Final back to The Glass Works Square for a second year. Markets have been part of Barnsley’s story for more than 777 years, and we’re proud that Barnsley Market remains at the heart of our town centre.

“We know how important it is to protect markets for the future, and we look forward to welcoming the next generation of market traders and entrepreneurs to Barnsley from across the region.”

Joe Harrison, CEO of NMTF, said: “Retail markets are an incredible asset, bringing life and vibrancy to the high streets of market towns and cities.

“They are a vital part of our history and heritage, but they do not always receive the recognition or investment they deserve.”