The Dorp Street Sunday Market (DSSM) in Stellenbosch began in October 2020, with the aim of helping businesses that were negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. It has since grown into a large-scale Sunday activity that continues to support local businesses.
This is according to Leani Breedt, the head of vendor management at DSSM.
“Sundays were a particularly odd and quiet day for businesses in Stellenbosch, especially with students working online,” said Breedt.
The Dorp Street Sunday Market (DSSM) started as a way to help businesses who were negatively impacted by Covid-19. It has since grown and evolved into a way for small businesses to make money, according to Leani Breedt, the head of vendor management at DSSM. PHOTO: Supplied/Dorp Street Sunday Market
The aim of the market has changed over time, according to Breedt. “After experiencing the market trader and client dynamic first-hand, the aim slowly transitioned into a motivation to support local, unique crafters and entrepreneurs,” she said.
A growing market
Liza Lombard, the owner of Grow Your Own Funk (GYOF), an online thrift store and trader at DSSM, told MatieMedia that the market has grown significantly over the past year.
The Dorp Street Sunday Market (DSSM) in Stellenbosch has given traders, such as Grow Your Own Funk, the opportunity to not only make money, but also enjoy themselves while doing it, according to Liza Lombard, owner of Grow Your Own Funk. AUDIO: Liza Lombard
“[DSSM] only had five vintage [clothing] vendors…now it is close to 20,” said Lombard.
GYOF has been involved in the market since it began in October, as part of the thrift clothing section, which was held at an establishment known as Trumpet Tree, according to Lombard. Since Trumpet Tree closed down, the vendors have been operating outside, on the street, she added.
“It is worth it everytime I go, income-wise. I am able to run this business full-time,” said Lombard.
The Dorp Street Sunday Market (DSSM) has helped surrounding restaurants, such as Casa Cerverza and Adam and Eve Collab, gain more customers, according to Leanie Breedt, the head of vendor management at DSSM. PHOTO: Erin Walls
A network of support
The market has allowed vendors to network with each other and exchange details, according to Breedt.
“Vendors are often sourced and noticed, which has led them to larger, greater collaborations ‒ which is just amazing,” said Breedt.
The local residents who are drawn to the market also provide additional support to restaurants in the surrounding area, such as Casa Cerveza. This was according to Chris Norton, the owner of Casa Cerveza.
“The market has impacted us in a really positive manner. People travel from all over to come to the market, so new people are introduced to Casa every Sunday,” said Norton.
The Dorp Street Sunday Market (DSSM) has provided additional opportunities to vendors, such as being sourced by large businesses that want to sell their products in a retail store, according to Leani Breedt, the head of vendor management at DSSM. AUDIO: Leani Breedt
“The extra feet on Dorp Street means more people stop in for breakfast, lunch or just a drink. We love the vibe,” said Norton.
The future of DSSM is uncertain due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “With the pandemic hanging over our heads, we are not sure what awaits. However, we are so happy with where the market is today; it is like a big family,” said Breedt.