To market, to market at a flea market

Flea markets and pop up are the latest family weekend hangout spots

The weather in Hyderabad is too hot to plan a brunch. Mall hopping is passe. Climate change has meant no one is talking about mango farm visits either. One activity that is much sought after is the weekend flea market or pop-up. In Hyderabad, flea markets have evolved over the past few months into ‘family’ outings that offer something for everyone, including pets.

What brought the travelling flea markets to the city, which has traditionally been considered a price-conscious market?

Bijaya Datta who recently brought her flea market Pili Taxi to Hyderabad says, “It was our first time in the city. Our members suggested we try Hyderabad as the buying and spending pattern seems to be changing drastically. When we came to Hyderabad, we wanted to focus on summer. So a lot of flowy fashion, earthen hues, mild fragrances and everything that soothes the eye were brought in. It was all about homegrown clothing for men and women, kidswear, accessories, cruelty-free skincare, pottery, and home decor; 15 labels were showcased. We found notions about Hyderabad being price conscious are not true.” 

Anamika Dixit of Kaatn Trail, a conscious clothing brand from Mumbai that was showcased at the Pili Taxi exhibition, says, “This was a good opportunity for me to get in touch with my customers in Hyderabad. Usually, I mostly interact with them through email or messages. Flea markets are a great platform to test the market. Whichever city I travel to, I carry a couple of new designs, if they don’t find any takers, I junk them. That way I don’t end up making too many pieces and I am not left wondering what to do with unsold stock.”

In Hyderabad, flea markets are a space for family outings, but that does not mean just shopping. Kumar of Our Sacred Space in Secunderabad says, “It is not all about buying clothes, jewellery or things for the house, it is an event for the family to step out and have a good time. It means something for everyone. Some flea markets have spaces for various activities for children, such as clay pottery and painting. Plus there are food stalls that everyone enjoys. ” 

Market place for…

Flea markets and pop-ups are the marketplace for small businesses with limited stock, such as homegrown labels that cater to a discerning crowd. Rahul of Hydra Kombucha used pop-ups and flea markets to test the market. He points out that even small businesses should know how to pick and choose a flea market he/she wants to be in, especially if it is a niche product. “Kombucha, my product, sells well at flea markets that target a certain audience. For example, at a recently held Vegan flea, I didn’t have to explain or make any efforts to be seen,” says Rahul.