London flower market publishes review ahead of 2022 events

Chiswick Flower Market today publishes its review into its progress made in 2021 and sets out its plans for 2022.

The 8 markets that could be operated in 2021 managed to attract more than 60,000 visitors to what has become known as the “Columbia Road of the West”. There were more than 60 different traders at the markets, with 65 per cent of them locally based and 75 per cent of them new businesses

The market’s high sustainability ethos meant all plastic bags were banned, 150 deliveries were made by cargo bike and some of the surpluses were used to plant 570 shrubs and 2,000 bulbs around the market.

As social distancing rules were reduced in 2021, the market was able to experiment with street entertainment, with 17 acts including stilt-walkers, fire-eaters, jazz musicians, tap dances, school choirs and the local rock choir.

The organisation also published details of its finances in 2021. Total revenue was £20k in the year, with operating costs of £8k. The surplus of £12k is being invested back in the local area including £3.5k which were used to replant the flower beds of Chiswick High Road.

Karen Liebreich, co-founder, said: “We have an exciting 2022 planned and will continue our close collaboration with businesses and the London Borough of Hounslow. Data from TfL’s cameras showed that footfall on a flower market Sunday in Chiswick High Road was 70 per cent higher than a non-market Sunday.

“Our surveys also show that 54 per cent of our visitors were from outside the immediate W4 area and 22 per cent of all visitors had travelled more than 5kms to visit us. The market has developed its own vibe and we are excited and energised as we start our 2022 season.”

The next Chiswick Flower Market will be on Sunday 6th February and is held on the first Sunday of every month throughout the year except January.