Big plans for Spitalfields

Old Spitalfields Market in London’s East End is set to be transformed into an international dining, retail, event and entertainment destination.

Shropshire-based Wellington Market Company, which runs 19 markets across the UK, has signed a deal with Spitalfields’ owner The Ballymore Group to manage operations at the site.

Highlighting the particular attraction of this latest deal, Malcolm Ball, chief executive for Wellington Market Company explained: “With many well known food, restaurant and retail brands moving to the area, Spitalfields is fast becoming a desirable social base for both Londoners and tourists. Our proposition will undoubtedly add to Old Spitalfields’ cache.”

In addition to its market stalls, Spitalfields already plays host to a growing number of restaurants, including Canteen, Carluccio’s, Giraffe and Leon.

Ball further announced: “We’ll shortly be announcing an exciting array of events and activities that will entice more visitors to the site – which will be great news for Old Spitalfields Market and the surrounding areas.”

Ball, who was formerly chief executive of Vinopolis, went on to outline plans to create a “retail theatre” for visitors. Plans under development will see Spitalfields host more public events as well as corporate functions and themed market days in a bid to increase footfall.

The Wellington Market Company takes over operations at Spitalfields on 1 February, when the current operator’s contract comes to an end.

Gabriel Savage, 12.01.10