Christmas vending season will be shortened this year, SJDC announces; applications now available

Vendors and other persons wishing to ply their trade in St. John’s
this Christmas season are advised that they will be able to do so –
but for just over three weeks, beginning December 12 and ending
January 7.

The St. John’s Development Corporation (SJDC), which has the
responsibility for allocating vending spots, says applications for
Christmas 2023 vending are now available at the head office at the
Vendors Mall on Thames Street, and at the Craft Market at the Public
Market Complex.

Vendors are required to pay an application fee of EC$10 and forms
can be obtained between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday
to Thursday, and from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Fridays.

According to the Corporation, the types of items to be sold attract
different fees and these are listed on the application forms.

Apparently there is limited space available, but the SJDC is advising
that vending will be allowed on-street and also in enclosed areas.
The main locations identified are Corn Alley, Upper High Street,
Upper Redcliffe Street, Upper St. Mary’s Street, Upper Church Street,
Upper Nevis Street, and Market Street in the vicinity of the Public
Market Complex.

Persons will also be allowed to vend at Judgment Square, the Flea
Market aka “Ben Dung,” and in the area outside the King George V
Grounds.

The Corporation says it will be vigilant in the administration of the
vending rules and regulations during this period.

There are many people in Antigua and Barbuda who have resorted
to vending or selling items online in order to make extra money, due
to the current hard economic climate.