Liverpool Christmas market traders claim they are priced out by £12,000 fees

Independent local vendors in Liverpool are demanding changes after claiming they have been priced out of the city's annual Christmas market by pitch fees reaching up to £12,000. A group of traders recently met with Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson to voice their frustration over the steep charges imposed by the market's new operator, Underbelly. Long-time participant Anthony Grice, who runs the popular Scouse Bird Gifts brand, stated that the skyrocketing costs make it impossible for small regional businesses to afford a stall at the St George's Plateau event. He warned that the pricing structure threatens to strip the festive attraction of its authentic local character in favour of larger commercial chains. During the meeting, Councillor Robinson acknowledged that the local authority was aware of the new operator's pricing model when awarding the contract. However, he committed to reviewing how future arrangements can better support independent Merseyside merchants. Underbelly defended its pricing strategy, explaining that fees vary depending on stall size and product category, and stated that the overall investment funds upgraded festive infrastructure, entertainment, and marketing designed to drive heavy footfall for all participating vendors.