Reduced rents are being offered to new traders who set up a stall in a Black Country market place for the first time.

New stallholders are being invited to try Dudley’s thriving market place for half price for their first eight weeks.

It is hoped that once they get a taste of what is on offer they will be keen to stay and take advantage of the town’s trade. The market place is currently working at more than 70 per cent capacity – with a total of 52 of a possible 74 stalls occupied. This has fluctuated slightly since 2006.

Then occupancy was about 75 per cent but Dudley Council is confident it can attract new traders to the town centre plot.

Leaders have come up with the special offer in a bid to attract business savvy sellers to the town and give the market a fresh feel.

Julie Jones, commercial operations manager, said: “We are pleased with the market’s current occupancy rate of more than 70 per cent. However, we are always looking to improve further and have ongoing financial trading incentives to encourage more traders to come and experience Dudley Market.

“We currently have a promotion to encourage brand new traders who have never been to Dudley before to come and see what we have on offer. We are offering these new traders half price stall rent for eight weeks.”

The council offered similar incentives back in 2006 when Friday traders enjoyed half price rents and there were further benefits for stall holders who introduced new traders.

Dudley’s market place enjoyed a day of celebrations on Wednesday with a Make Markets Matter event.

People were invited to enjoy events such as face painting, stilt walkers and a live cookery demonstration. “Dudley Market offers quality products at great prices ,” said Mrs Jones.

Stall prices vary according to location and day. Outdoor market stalls are £12.75 on a Monday, £14.50 on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays, £18.50 on Fridays and £19.95 on Saturdays.

Indoor market stalls are £10.70 on Mondays, £11.75 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, £15.80 on Fridays and £16.85 on Saturdays. These are the full prices for the stalls.

Anyone interested in taking advantage of the rent incentive should call the market officer on 01384 815264.