Shoppers and stallholders are disappointed with the announcement of Eagle Farm Markets’ closure at the end of October.
Eagle Farm Markets has officially announced that the last market day will be on Sunday, 28 October 2018.
The management informed the stallholders of the closure via email prior to their announcement on social media, however, it seems that not all were aware of the news. Some stallholders reportedly found out about the markets’ closing on Facebook.
Major Challenges
According to Brisbane Racing Club chairman Neville Bell, the decline in customers visiting the markets over the years is one of the challenges that the markets faced.
The popular markets reportedly had a decrease of 23.5% of customer visits in the last financial year. Apart from the decreasing customer visits, the number of competition in the area is also a hurdle for the markets.
“As a result, the BRC together with our partner the Brisbane Markets Limited, has decided to end the Eagle Farm Markets. The final Markets will be held on Sunday, October 28. This decision was not easy however we are mindful that our responsibility as a Club is to ensure our growing non-racing ventures are operated in a sustainable manner,” Mr Bell said.
“We thank the many loyal customers and clients of the Eagle Farm Markets. At their peak, the Markets attracted about 200,000 people each year. They were a vibrant gathering bringing together some excellent producers and loyal customers. We are grateful for their contributions,” he added.
Reactions from the Community
Most locals are sad to hear the news since the Eagle Farm Markets have been part of their Sunday routine. However, some are not as surprised since they have also noticed a decrease in the number of stalls in the markets. Some have even called out the limited number of parking space in the markets.
The Eagle Farm Markets might be bracing for a really busy Sunday. More locals are expressing their interest in heading to the markets for the very last time before its permanent closure.