A FRESH start has paid off for traders who moved from Chester’s old market hall to the new one.
Relocating to the £72 million Northgate development, businesses have reported big growth and higher footfall since the move in 2022.
Legal firm Mackenzie Jones Solicitors, with offices in Chester, St Asaph, and Menai Bridge, supported several traders through the transition.
A standout success has been Otis Barbershop, whose owner says life is "incredibly busy" at the heart of one of Chester's busiest and most vibrant destinations.
Jed Lloyd, owner of Otis Barbershop, said: "Our vision has always been to be more than a barbershop, to offer customers a place to relax, talk openly and experience a luxury haircut that suits their lifestyle.
"We have a real passion for mental health and strive to create a friendly, welcoming environment.
"Mackenzie Jones helped us make that leap, and the support they have given us has been invaluable.
"We see the market as the central hub of Chester – clients love it, footfall is strong and the atmosphere is brilliant.
"Since moving, we've launched our own product line and gone from strength to strength."
Mr Lloyd, who has trained and worked internationally in cities including London, Dubai, Mauritius, and the US, opened his first barbershop in Chester more than six years ago.
He praised the city centre community that has grown around the new market, including customers from nearby businesses.
Among those customers is Mackenzie Jones director Andrew Foley-Jones, who is also the author of the It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham book series.
Mr Foley-Jones said: "When we first assisted traders with the move from the old market, there was naturally a mixture of excitement and uncertainty.
"The market has always been an important part of Chester's identity, but what has happened since shows what investment, ambition, and independent businesses can achieve when the conditions are right.
"Otis Barbershop is one of several success stories, and we're delighted to have played a part in helping businesses establish themselves in what has become one of the city's most vibrant destinations."
He said it was especially rewarding to watch the firms they supported continue to grow.
Mr Foley-Jones said: "We've continued to grow our commercial presence across Chester, North Wales, and the wider North West – so it's particularly pleasing to see so many of the companies we've supported doing the same."
Chester Market now houses around 40 independent traders, food vendors, bars, and retailers and has helped drive the ongoing regeneration of the city centre.
Mackenzie Jones Solicitors continues to expand its footprint in Chester and the wider region.
The firm can be contacted at www.macjones.com or by phone at 0800 328 4466.
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