Traders hail 'best in the Midlands' as Bilston Market continues to thrive

Nick Brown, of Discount Electrical, has been trading on the market for 30 years and believes its reputation is well deserved.

“I used to supply shops and market traders at wholesale level, but then we went into retail on the market,” he said.

“Bilston Market is unique. It’s the best market in the Midlands – I believe it could be one of the best in the country.

“I love Bilston Market because of the customers and the traders. We’ve got some really good traders here and I’ve built up many customers who’ve become good friends.

“We sell electrical goods – every lead, light bulb, toasters, domestic kettles… a lot of domestic stuff,” he explained.

“We do watch batteries, watch straps, Hoover parts. So we do quite a lot of odds and sods, basically.”

For Nigel Smart, of Chain Store Clothing, the market is a family legacy stretching back decades.

“We’ve been on Bilston for 50 years with ladies’ clothing – all famous label clothing - and I love Bilston Market,” he said.

“I was born here – this was my home town. We work here every Monday and Thursday and our family have traded here for over 50 years. We know masses of customers and have been very successful.”

Their confidence comes as work continues on a major redevelopment of the market, part of a wider regeneration programme for the town.

More than £8 million is being invested in the scheme, which is expected to be completed in 2026. The upgraded market will include improved access, modernised stalls, new public spaces and better facilities for both traders and shoppers.

A new canopy and enhanced layout are also designed to protect traders and customers from the weather while creating a more modern and vibrant shopping environment.

The redevelopment forms just one phase of broader investment in Bilston, with further plans including public realm improvements, new links to the High Street, and a health and wellbeing facility aimed at boosting footfall and supporting the local economy.