Become a trader
Want to join our community of independent traders driven by shared values of sustainability, fairness, and quality?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are you looking for in new traders?
We’re interested in food and drink businesses that put quality, integrity and care at the heart of what they do.
This means traders who are closely connected to how their product is grown, produced, or sourced; who understand where their ingredients come from; and who can speak confidently about the people, places and processes behind them.
At Borough Market, we value food and drink that reflects skill, craft, tradition and seasonality. We’re particularly keen to hear from businesses whose products tell a story, whether that’s through heritage, under-represented food cultures, or innovative approaches to health, sustainability and the environment.
Above all, we’re looking for traders whose values and practices align with our Food Policy, and who see trading here as part of a wider commitment to better food and drink.
What is Borough Market’s Food Policy?
Our food policy sets out the principles that underpin being a Borough Market trader.
The principles relate to nine themes: quality, environmental sustainability, social & economic sustainability, animal welfare, knowledge & transparency, opportunity, health, variety and accessibility.
New traders should be able to demonstrate how they meet each and any of the criteria relevant to their business and offering.
Can I apply if my business is still in development?
Absolutely! We’d love to hear from new businesses that are just starting out who demonstrate an alignment with values in our Food Policy.
What happens after I submit my expression of interest?
Once you’ve submitted an expression of interest, your information will be logged by our team.
We will review expressions of interest to identify businesses that may be a good fit for the market and its values. When a new opening becomes available, we may invite them to apply through our more detailed application process.
What is the difference between an expression of interest and an application to trade at Borough Market?
Expression of interest:
This is where we ask, via the form above, for you to provide a brief overview of your business and its values. This helps us better understand the businesses that want to trade here and allows us to get in touch with those whose values align with ours when an opportunity becomes available. Think of it as a chance to put your business ‘on our radar’.
Application process:
When an opportunity to trade at Borough Market becomes available, it will be advertised publicly on our website. The application will ask you to submit a detailed response to specific questions that help us understand your business practices, your suitability to the opening, and consistent with Borough Market’s values. Anyone is welcome to apply. Businesses that have expressed an interest in trading may be proactively invited to apply if their concept fits with the available opening.
Will I receive feedback on my expression of interest?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide feedback on expressions of interest.
Can I re-apply in the future?
Absolutely. If you have been unsuccessful in applying before, or you don’t hear from us about your expression of interest, you may wish to consider how your business aligns with Borough Market’s values and reshape future applications with this in mind.
How often do openings become available at Borough Market?
This varies and is difficult to predict. Traders may leave and / or openings become available for several different reasons at any time. Expressing an interest in trading with us is the best way to ensure that you’ll be considered when new openings become available.
What is the difference between a primary producer, an artisan producer, and a direct-sourcing merchant?
Primary producer:
You grow, raise, or harvest the fresh products you sell. This includes farmers, growers, fishers, who manage production at source, using practices that support positive outcomes for climate, nature, and people.
Artisan producer:
You make your products from scratch using your own skill, craft, or traditional methods. Your products reflect cultural heritage or seasonal traditions, use ingredients sourced from suppliers you know and trust, and contribute to a diverse food culture.
Direct-sourcing merchant:
You buy products directly from producers, with a clear connection to place and landscape. Your offer is rooted in provenance, transparency, and long-term relationships with the people who grow or make what you sell.