If you're a small business owner or creator like me, wondering where to invest my time and resources, choosing the right big markets is essential. Here’s a breakdown of Australia’s top markets to help me decide: Finders Keepers, Big Design, Handmade Canberra, Makers and Shakers, and Bowerbird.
Let’s dive into what each has to offer and whether it’s the right fit for your brand.
1. Is Finders Keepers the Right Market for My Brand? – Melbourne & Sydney
What’s the Vibe Like at Finders Keepers?
Finders Keepers is one of Australia’s largest and most well-established markets, held twice a year in both Melbourne and Sydney. Known for its curated selection of high-quality, unique items, this market is a good fit for brands that want to showcase standout products.
I've personally done Finders Keepers in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane (before they stopped trading in Brisbane) and had success at all locations. One benefit is that Finders Keepers doesn’t require products to be Australian-made—if your items are designed in Australia but not made here, you’re eligible.
Fun Fact: Finders Keepers is now owned by the Cedar Mill Group, which also runs The Olive Tree Market in Newcastle.
Who Will I Reach at Finders Keepers?
This market draws big crowds of art and design lovers who value locally crafted goods. Expect a mix of loyal attendees and new shoppers, perfect for reaching fans in person if I’ve built an online presence.
One thing to note is that the crowd at Finders Keepers has dropped off in recent years, however with the recent move to Carriageworks a lot of makers are hoping it will be more convenient for the general public to travel to.
Is Finders Keepers Worth the Investment?
From memory, the fees for Finders Keepers are around the $2,000 mark for a 3x2 stall. They also charge extra if you want a corner. If I’m looking for strong brand visibility and can handle a bustling environment, Finders Keepers offers good exposure to the right audience, although it comes with higher costs.
I've done Finders Keepers in Sydney and Melbourne in recent years, and I find Melbourne is worth travelling to if you're interstate. Sydney, not so much. Although this could change.
2. Is Big Design Market Worth the Investment for Me? – Melbourne & Sydney
What’s the Vibe Like at Big Design?
The Big Design Market is ideal for brands focused on quality and innovation. With events in both Melbourne and Sydney, this market attracts a design-savvy crowd looking for distinctive and sustainable products. If your brand aligns with these values, Big Design could be a strong match.
I will preface this by saying that I have applied for Big Design a few times but haven't been accepted. I do know lots of makers who do that market regularly though.
Who Will I Reach at Big Design?
Expect attendees who are keen on home decor, fashion, and unique gift items. This market has a reputation for drawing buyers who appreciate originality, making it an excellent opportunity for small brands to shine.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Big Design is the most expensive multi-day market for small makers in Australia. From memory it is something like $500 more expensive than Finders Keepers.
For makers aiming to position their brand as a top-tier option, Big Design is a worthwhile investment. With the right setup, you'll connect with a crowd that values premium, locally crafted goods.
Big Design also don't have an Australian-Made requirement.
3. Should I Consider Handmade Canberra for My Brand? – Canberra Only
What’s the Vibe Like at Handmade Canberra?
Handmade Canberra is a highly regarded market focused on locally and ethically made products. Located exclusively in Canberra, it is a multi-day event that draws a dedicated following, making it ideal for brands who are Australian Made.
Who Shops at Handmade Canberra?
Canberra locals are well aware of this market and it's advertised well in the community. The crowd that attends are particularly supportive of handmade products and appreciate the work and associated cost of shopping small. Handmade Canberra’s dedicated crowd is always on the lookout for unique, meaningful items they can’t find in standard retail.
Is It Worth the Investment?
For those looking to grow in a supportive environment with an authentic handmade focus, Handmade Canberra is an excellent choice. Though it’s a smaller market compared to those in bigger cities, it has a loyal audience that values the handmade ethos.
The other excellent part of attending Handmade Canberra is the Handmade Canberra directory. You don't have to attend the market regularly to be on the directory and as a shopper, it's a great resource for finding small Australian made businesses.
4. Is Makers and Shakers a Good Fit for My Business? – Melbourne & Sydney
What’s the Atmosphere Like at Makers and Shakers?
Makers and Shakers has a modern feel, attracting a community that loves stylish, handmade items. With events in Melbourne and Sydney, this market provides a smaller, friendly atmosphere while still packing in plenty of quality products and enthusiastic attendees.
Who Shops at Makers and Shakers?
Expect to meet a mix of younger buyers, families, and homeware enthusiasts. If your brand has a contemporary, aesthetically pleasing vibe, this market is a fantastic place to showcase your products.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Makers and Shakers is perfect for brands dipping their toes into bigger markets but looking for a manageable crowd size. The cost is slightly lower than some other big events, yet the audience is just right for those with trend-forward products.
How Can I Choose the Right Market for My Brand?
When deciding which market is right for you, consider my goals, target audience, and budget. Each of these markets offers something unique, whether you're looking for massive exposure in Sydney or Melbourne or a more intimate experience in Canberra.
By aligning with a markets that reflects your brand values, you can make an investment that helps my business grow, connect, and shine.
Who can help me with my Multi-Day Market Application?
I'm a member of Make Good Things Happen, run by Angela and Renee of Dalton Baker Productions, who have experience running events like Finders Keepers. They offer a market application program that provides feedback to help makers improve their applications. The Make Good Things Happen community is also a valuable resource for makers looking for business advice, support, and connections.