Practical, Experience-Tested Tips for Small Business Owners
Running a market stall is one of the most rewarding parts of being a small business owner. But whether you're brand new to markets or a seasoned trader looking to increase sales, one challenge remains the same: how to attract customers to your market stall consistently.
If you’ve ever watched customers stroll by without noticing your booth—or seen crowds gather at a nearby stall while yours stays quiet—you’re not alone. The good news? A few strategic adjustments can dramatically increase foot traffic, interaction, and conversions. We've been doing high street markets every week for over 4 years now and have trialled and tested a few ideas. So we thought we would share a few that have really worked.
Below is a complete guide covering some of the most effective ways to draw people in, improve shopper flow, and create a stall environment that naturally boosts sales.
1. Place Someone in Front of Your Stall to Increase Foot Traffic
Human behaviour is simple: when people see a small crowd they instinctively want to know what’s happening.
If you have a helper or friend with you, let them stand just in front of your stall rather than behind the table. Their presence signals that something worth stopping for is happening, creating organic interest without you needing to say a word. This is a simple and easy trick to get people coming over to your stall and has worked amazingly for us.
2. Use Accessible Mirrors to Encourage Trying On (and Buying)
If you sell jewellery, accessories, hats, scarves, or clothing, mirrors are essential—but only if they’re positioned well.
Place mirrors at eye level, securely mounted, and positioned where customers can try items on naturally. When shoppers see themselves wearing your products, engagement and conversion rates increase significantly. They will know and decide if they like it there and then, meaning they are more likely to buy. This is a huge advantage for in-person shopping and why market stalls can be great for sales if set up correctly.
3. Sit or Stand — But Keep It Consistent
Many vendors sit down between customers but jump up as soon as someone approaches. While well-meaning, this can unintentionally make shoppers feel pressured.
Choose one posture—either sitting or standing—and stay consistent. This keeps your presence calm and approachable, signaling that customers are welcome to browse without feeling watched. Be friendly and engaging, but give them space to discover what they might like.
4. Add a Backdrop to Focus Attention and Elevate Your Brand
Without a backdrop, shoppers’ attention is pulled toward the clutter and movement behind you.
A simple fabric or vinyl backdrop minimises distractions, highlights your products, reinforces your brand aesthetic, creates visual height, and provides space for signage and banners. It can also be an opportunity to advertise services and sales to people, giving them another incentive to come and browse your products.
5. Create a Layout That Feels Natural and Inviting
Your stall layout has a huge impact on whether customers stop and explore. Keep it open, easy to enter, and visually spacious.
- Don’t block the entrance with tables.
- Display hero pieces or best-sellers at the outer edges.
- Avoid creating tight corners where customers feel “stuck.”
- Use multiple display heights to create visual movement.
- Keep surfaces clean and uncluttered.
6. Subtle Body-Language Signals That You’re Approachable
Most shoppers prefer browsing without interaction at first, so your cues must be gentle, not salesy.
- a warm smile
- a relaxed posture
- a simple “Hi, feel free to have a browse!”
- visible hands—not on your phone
- friendly and engaging conversation
This sounds simple but can take some time to get used to. Selling your products should always come across as natural and not pushy. If people like your product and like you also, there's a good chance they will buy. So don't force it; just be inviting and friendly, then let your products also do the talking!
7. Use Sensory Elements to Increase Dwell Time
Visual and tactile cues play a major role in how comfortable customers feel at your stall. The right textures, colours, and materials can encourage people to explore longer.
- warm natural materials (linen, woven textures, wood, organic fabrics)
- calm earth-toned palettes
- soft surfaces and uncluttered displays
- natural stones or subtle greenery for visual interest
These are examples for our brand, but will vary depending on what your brand aligns with. You can match your own brands related colours and textures to your market stall for the same effect.
8. Adjust Your Stall Strategy Seasonally
Small seasonal tweaks can significantly improve comfort and foot traffic.
Summer markets: Keep any side covers on your gazebo open, this increases visibility and means people can see more of what you have on offer. It also makes your market stall feel less claustrophobic in the higher temperatures!
Winter markets: Use warm lighting and keep displays feeling cozy and inviting. You may need to use side covers if the weather is poor, but if possible still keep these open.
Rainy or windy days: Use waterproof signage, secure displays, and add covered trays. Close those side covers and make sure water won't be dripping in the areas where customers will be browsing. Use weights at the corners of your gazebo so it doesn't fly away in high winds!
Conclusion
Attracting customers to your market stall isn’t about shouting for attention—it’s about creating a space that feels welcoming and visually engaging. By combining thoughtful layout design, subtle body-language cues, natural textures, and a cohesive brand presence, you can significantly increase how many customers you attract to your market stall and convert casual browsers into happy buyers.
FAQs: How to Attract More Customers to Your Market Stall
What makes a market stall stand out?
Clean displays, a clear brand identity, and an open layout help your stall stand out even in a crowded market. Keep any banner text bold and simple.
How do I attract people to my craft stall?
Use mirrors, create a welcoming entrance and avoid clutter. Have visiting friends or family stand as customers would, attracting more people over. This is a personal proven strategy!
What is the best layout for a jewellery market stall?
One that includes vertical display areas, accessible mirrors, an open entrance, and your best sellers positioned at the front edges of the stall.
How do I get more foot traffic at markets?
Place someone in front of your stall, use backdrops to minimise distractions, incorporate sensory elements, and ensure your layout feels easy to browse.
Find Silver Hollow Jewellery at Upcoming Markets
- [Chichester General Market] – [Chichester, West Sussex] – [Every Wednesday]
- [Horsham Carfax Market] – [Horsham, West Sussex] – [Every Saturday]
Come browse and try on our handmade jewellery with a huge selection of pieces to choose from! You can also browse our website for more of our work here at Silver Hollow Jewellery.