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Small Businesses Report Strong Sales At Charlotte Pop-Up Market

Nick de la Canal
/
WFAE

There was a bright spot for small businesses in Charlotte hoping for a windfall during Small Business Saturday this weekend.

Vendors at a pop-up market at Atherton Mill said sales were stronger than expected, with some selling out before the end of the day. The event was organized with help from Charlotte Center City Partners and Esther and Elsa Retail Events.

Some vendors said they weren't sure what to expect with rising COVID-19 cases and new health measures in place, but many said they were pleasantly surprised with the turnout.

"It was going to give us a pretty good pulse on what we could expect in future markets," said Jordan Cox, who was selling handmade bath products with his wife, Ashley. "And everything went way better than we thought."

Artist and crafter Anna Gelbach echoed that, saying she nearly ran out of some products.

"It feels good knowing that you can be a small business and still get supported during the holidays really well," she said.

Vendors are hoping for more strong sales at three additional Saturday markets planned for Dec. 5, 12, and 19 at alternating sites in South End.

A survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights and Analytics says consumers plan to spend, on average, $998 this holiday season, which is up slightly from last year.

Nick de la Canal is an on air host and reporter covering breaking news, arts and culture, and general assignment stories. His work frequently appears on air and online. Periodically, he tweets: @nickdelacanal