Glen Spean Market has announced the appointment of Ella Cardinali as its new Market Manager following the decision by founders Viv MacDonald and Liz MacMaster to step back after five years of developing and leading the much-loved producers market.
Founded in October 2020, during the height of the Covid lockdown, Glen Spean Market was born out of a Crofting Federation Zoom course facilitated by Elchies in the Cairngorms.
Within just a few weeks of completing the course, Viv and Liz launched the first market in the courtyard of Glen Spean Brewery.
Due to its immediate popularity and rapid growth, the market soon relocated to the Ben Nevis Auction Mart at Torlundy, just north of Fort William, where it continues to thrive.
New Market Manager Ella Cardinali said: "It’s a real privilege to take on this role - Viv and Liz have built something very special. I’m excited to support our stallholders and continue building a market that brings the local community together."
Since its launch, the monthly market has hosted 27 markets, becoming a cornerstone of the local food, drink, and craft community.
A defining feature of Glen Spean Market has been its strong community ethos. Each month, the market supports a local charity by providing free promotion, a prominent space at the event, and ongoing encouragement.
The market has also played a vital role in supporting small businesses and startups. By maintaining affordable stall fees and fostering a welcoming environment, Glen Spean Market has helped many producers take their first steps into trading.
Several have gone on to establish successful full-time businesses, including OH Crumbs Bakeaway now supplying many local cafes and Stiff Peaks Bakery, which now operates its own bakery and shop in Ballachulish.
A key principle of the market has always been its commitment to local and quality. Stallholders are required to produce or make their wares, with no third-party selling permitted. This ensures a consistently high standard, with products originating from Lochaber and the wider Highlands.
Andy Rogers spokesperson of the Marketing Committee said: "We would like to thank Viv and Liz for their vision, dedication, and tireless work in establishing Glen Spean Market.
"What they have created is truly special, a platform that has supported so many local businesses and brought the community together.
"We are also delighted to welcome Ella into the role of Market Manager and look forward to supporting her as she leads the market into its next chapter."
Glen Spean Market looks forward to this new chapter under Ella’s leadership, continuing its mission to celebrate local food and drink, support small businesses, and bring the community together.
For more information visit the Glean Spean Market: Producers & Crafters Facebook page.
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