Award-winning local traders at Chrisp Street Market

Tower Hamlets is a borough with an eclectic mix of markets, offering diverse stalls and shops, which are loved by visitors and residents alike.

More and more market stall holders are becoming part of the Food for Health Awards (FFHA) – a growing band of restaurants, cafes and convenience stores that have signed up to provide healthier options to their customers. As part of the FFHA, the Buywell retail project has been working with convenience stores and traders across Tower Hamlets to increase the availability and affordability of fruit and vegetables.

Each trader is assessed according to the FFHA market standard which ensures that they are selling class 1 quality produce, in striking displays. They all offer great quality produce with many items found cheaper than at major supermarkets.

Esther Trenchard-Mabere, associate director of public health at Tower Hamlets Council said: “Chrisp Street Market is becoming a destination for foodies with such an eclectic variety of stalls and award-winning cafes, as well as a spot to pick up your fresh fruit and veg on the daily. The area remains the heart of the community and we encourage residents and visitors to continue shopping locally to keep the market alive.”

Four traders at Chrisp Street Market have been recognised with an award and supported by the Buywell team have improved their offer and seen their sales continue to grow as a result.

Mr Aruk Choudray, who’s been trading at Chrisp Street since 2013 said: “Being part of the Food for Health scheme has really helped my business. I have increased my sales and doubled my pitch size.”

Mr Toklias Miah said: “I have worked very hard to build a successful business and have many customers from outside the borough who like the quality of my produce. The Food For Health Awards has helped promote my business to new customers and show existing customers that they can trust what they buy.”

An annual Spring Festival will transform Chrisp Street Market on Saturday, April 18 from 11am – 4pm featuring 40 local initiatives, entertainment and activities including cooking demonstrations, food growers, gardeners, animal and bee farms, recycling and upcycling workshops and advice on how to save energy.