Solihull follows Birmingham in opening German market

Nov 28 2009 by Sophie Cross, Birmingham Mail

THE battle of the bratwursts will begin this weekend when another German market sets up shop.

Solihull is opening its own version of neighbouring Birmingham’s festive extravaganza today.

But despite the borough’s businesses having complained of Birmingham hogging all the shoppers in the past, organisers insist they are not trying to compete.

Solihull Council and local traders have organised the market, which will offer a variety of traditional handicrafts such as wooden toys, Christmas decorations and candles.

The beer and gluhwein will be flowing and food will include everything from pork, ham and garlic mushrooms to nuts, crepes and waffles.

Paul Round, centre manager of Mell Square, where the market will be held, said: “The town felt that although we’ve got an excellent presence we wanted to do something to make it even better.

“With the success of the German market in Birmingham we felt we would like to have a try with one of our own. There is no way we have set out to compete with Birmingham – the space alone won’t permit it.

“What we’re offering is an authentic German market experience and, hopefully, our customers will enjoy it. We’ve been very down-to-earth about it and very reasonable.”

He added: “The actual layout in the square is ideal for markets – we’ve had European markets here before that people visit frequently. I think this will be a new and exciting experience for the customers.”

The Solihull market will be up and running from 10am to the sounds of a Bavarian band, before the town’s Christmas lights switch-on at 5.30pm.

It will trade from 10am to 7pm from Sunday to Thursday and until 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays up until December 23.