A market trader is a person who sells goods or services in an indoor, outdoor or covered market.

The goods they sell can be anything from fruit and vegetables to antiques, and can be new or second hand. Services they could sell include shoe repairs, key cutting and engraving, and computer or mobile phone repairs.

The types of market a market trader operates in can be anything from a farmers' market (selling local produce, usually perishable items), to a specialist market (selling antiques, books or crafts) or a flea market (selling, for example bric-a-brac or second hand goods).

Market traders usually work long hours including very early starts and frequent weekend work. They are required to have good numeracy skills to carry out frequent cash transactions, be good communicators, with strong interpersonal skills and have an ability to negotiate on price.

It's also important that a market trader keeps records of goods bought and sold, including VAT details. They also need to keep informed on market regulations and the current laws on trading and employment.

Salaries may start at the national minimum wage for a market stall assistant whilst a more experienced market trader can earn over £26,000 a year. A trader working a small stall for a couple of days a week is likely to earn less than £7,000 a year.

For more information, go to

http://www.nmtf.co.uk/