New Free Event: Merch Market
Tim Burdess has unveiled an exciting new event called Merch Market, which will take place across multiple locations in Manchester. This initiative allows groups and artists to sell their merchandise without incurring any commission fees.
Exclusive Offerings from Charlatanov
Frontman Charlatanov plans to set up his own kiosk at the Merch Market, where he will present unique items and rarities from his personal collection. Among the offerings will be five exclusive sports bags featuring designs from Sproston Green ‘Sproston Green.’
“The trade market is a chance for groups and solo artists to explore what’s been hidden away in their rehearsal rooms or stored in closets – also providing an opportunity to offer limited edition items that can only be found at the merch market,” Burdess explained. “Stalls are free, and we don’t take commissions; 100 percent of the proceeds go to the artists.”
He further noted, “We collaborated with Print Manchester on some advanced designs that we can’t wait for everyone to see.”
The event is scheduled for May 25 at venues including O2 Ritz, Gorilla, and Dog Bowl, featuring kiosks, live performances, DJs, stage interviews, and panel discussions. The market will be open from 11 AM until late, with varying hours across different locations. Attendees will have the chance to win signed vinyl test pressings and VIP tickets for the Kendal Calling 2025 festival.
Artists and vendors interested in participating can apply for a kiosk through the “Help Us Help” website.
This initiative is part of Burdess’s ongoing campaign against commission fees for product sales. In 2021, he highlighted the issue of venues charging up to 25 percent on merchandise sales, which resulted in 400 venues joining the 100% database, pledging not to take a cut from artists’ earnings.
Charlatans are also set to release a vinyl record featuring the track “One I Know” for Record Store Day 2025.
