MEDICINE HAT, AB – A new market in town is growing small businesses, helping the community and hoping to attract tourism.
It’s only been three weeks, but business is booming for Gas City Market.
“On Saturday, I believe we had throughout the course of the day, more than 400 people come in,” said Samantha Aglubat, owner of Gas City Market. “It’s definitely more than double the amount of the first week.”
Inspired by Calgary markets, owners Samantha and Ingrid wanted to bring a similar concept to Medicine Hat.
The women give local artists and small businesses space to showcase their items. Selling anything from jewelry and clothing to skincare and household items.
“I’ve been involved here for about a week and it’s been very nice. A lot of people are coming in,” vendor Fred Ammann said. “I think it’s good for the people of Medicine Hat to come and take a look just to see what’s going on. A lot of items you won’t find anywhere that you’re going to find here.”
Aglubat says Gas City Market is giving vendors a platform to sell their products for the first time.
“Since starting Gas City Market, we have found out that a lot of our vendors are going to be trying to use this to make it a living wage,” Aglubat said.
She is trying to make her market as accessible as possible.
Vendors without a business license can sell their products under Gas City Market’s license. Booths cost $300.
“We are willing to work with people if the current price is a little too much for students who are still going to school and want a table just to see how things will go,” Aglubat said. “We can work with you.”
Gas City Market doesn’t allow vendors who sell alcohol, cannabis or tobacco products.
The market is open from 4-8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays and 12-4 p.m. on Sundays and is located downtown at 410 South Railway St.
