Can you believe we’re set to experience highs of 17 degrees in some parts of the UK this week?! It looks like March is bringing the sunshine into a new month, and as the UK anticipates even brighter days ahead, economists are rejoicing.

Pedddle, the leading directory for artisan markets and creative businesses in Britain, has highlighted some key ways that the sun is boosting the nationwide economy and local economies too, with consumers looking to their local creative businesses to buy goods.

Good weather has a well-documented positive impact on human consumer behaviour, particularly in the retail sector, with studies demonstrating that sunshine increases artisan markets footfall as people look to bask in the sun and celebrate their local community. Markets are a perfect place to grab a pint with a friend or enjoy a hot dog with the family, and it’s not just the food that sells. Market Liaison Manager Rebecca explains, “we see a huge rise in searches for local markets when it’s sunny. People love the community feel of markets and the sunshine just makes you want to get outside for a stroll! This always has a positive effect on purchasing power in return”.

Although many artisan markets are held indoors, outdoor ones see a surge in shoppers in fair weather. In fact, recent reports have suggested that poor weather conditions resulted in deficits of up to £250 million for small businesses that are reliant on outdoor events over the Winter period, particularly when the UK experienced severe storms and flooding at the end of 2024. The sunshine brings with it a chance to boost business and claim these losses back. ​

And choosing to shop at local artisan markets has a multiplier effect on our economy. For every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized businesses, approximately 63p remains within the local economy, compared to around just 40p when spending at larger firms (stats from In Good Company). This circulation of money supports local employment, fosters community development, and sustains the vibrancy of local businesses, especially in terms of the kind of diversity that can be found at artisan markets.

Pedddle simplifies the process of discovering and supporting local artisan markets and creative businesses by providing a comprehensive online directory, enabling market visitors to find unique, sustainable products whilst contributing positively to their own local economies. As we embrace the sunnier seasons on the horizon, Pedddle encourages everyone to explore nearby markets, take a stroll in the sunshine and support local artisans, and experience first hand the benefits of shopping locally this year.

Pedddle is an online platform dedicated to promoting artisan markets and creative businesses throughout the UK. By connecting consumers with local makers and markets that they sell at, Pedddle fosters community engagement and supports the growth of the creative economy as a whole.