Hitchin Market: The 'Real Deal'

Hitchin is the first town in Hertfordshire to have a market

which has been given the 'Real Deal' stamp of approval.

The Real Deal campaign is a national initiative aimed at

tackling the supply of illegal goods and supporting well-run markets. Hitchin's

bid was supported by Hertfordshire Trading Standards, which has worked together

with the market's organisers, Hitchin Markets Ltd, North Herts District

Council, and copyright/trademark owners to ensure safe and fair trading.

A 'Real Deal' launch was held on Saturday (October 30) at

the market, which has also been awarded the National Association of British

Market Authorities (NABMA) Market of the Year award for 2010.

Keith Emsall, Executive Member for Community Safety, said:

"At the heart of the Real Deal project is a charter, which sets out key

principles for market operators and trading standards to abide by. Signing up

to the charter demonstrates an organisation's commitment to safe and fair

trading at their local market, and I'm delighted that Hitchin has taken this

important step to maintain a fake-free venue."

Tony Howes, Hitchin Market Manager, said: "Hitchin

Market is delighted to be able to demonstrate its commitment to safe and fair

trading, keeping our market free from counterfeit and illegal products. The

Real Deal stamp of approval is a great way to ensure people can shop and trade

with confidence."

Patricia Lennon, Real Deal Campaign Coordinator, said:

“Well-run markets are at the heart of a community, providing important benefits

to shoppers and local businesses.

"Unfortunately, unscrupulous traders can be attracted

to markets and car boot sales as an easy opportunity to trade illegally,

particularly in counterfeit and pirated goods. What many people don't realise

is that organised criminal groups are often behind the trade in counterfeit

goods and use it as way to launder cash from other criminal activity. Shoppers

in Hitchin are fortunate - they can shop with confidence knowing that traders

in counterfeits will not be tolerated at their market."

Personally I am proud that we live in a town which cares about its local market and has taken steps to ensure that it is a safer place to visit and shop.  With so many markets being closed down it is great to see steps being taken to ensure the survival of Hitchin's.   

Do you think Hitchin Market stands out from the rest?  What makes you shop there?