Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Sarah Griffin advances to the national final of the Young Horsham Trader Competition.
- Her business, Garden to Jar, exemplifies Horsham’s thriving artisanal scene.
- The competition nurtures entrepreneurial talent and bolsters local pride.
- Community support is at an all-time high as Horsham rallies behind its young traders.
Table of contents
Profile of the Young Entrepreneur
At just 22, Sarah Griffin has become a household name at Horsham’s vibrant market stalls. Her venture, Garden to Jar, began with a single table of homemade preserves and has grown into a flourishing brand celebrated for its *farm-to-table freshness*.
“I’ve always believed that locally sourced ingredients carry stories,” Sarah reflects, *“and every jar should tell one.”*
About the Competition
The Young Horsham Trader Competition has fast become a cornerstone event for ambitious business owners. Sponsored by Horsham District Council, the contest features rigorous preliminary heats and a show-stopping grand finale designed to *cultivate innovation* among traders aged 18-30.
- Preliminary market showcases
- Regional judging panels
- National final featuring top five young UK traders
Path to the National Final
Sarah secured her national berth after topping the regional leaderboard with *record customer engagement scores*. Judges praised her inventive flavours—like lavender & lemon marmalade—and her savvy use of sustainable packaging.
Her booth’s interactive tasting station, complete with seasonal fruit facts, earned high marks. One adjudicator described it as *“a masterclass in experiential retail.”*
Impact on the Community
Local enthusiasm has surged. Market footfall rose by **15%** during competition weekends, according to Visit Horsham. Councillor John Smith lauded the initiative, noting it *“puts Horsham on the entrepreneurial map.”*
- Increased customer loyalty schemes across stalls
- Collaborative pop-ups with neighbouring towns
- Greater youth participation in local commerce workshops
Future Prospects
With national exposure on the horizon, Sarah plans to expand into *seasonal subscription boxes* and partner with eco-friendly farms outside Sussex. “This journey has given me the confidence to dream bigger,” she enthuses, hinting at possible collaborations with the Sussex Food Network.
Conclusion
Sarah Griffin’s rise from local stallholder to national finalist underscores Horsham’s supportive business ecosystem. As she steps onto the national stage, her story serves as *both inspiration and blueprint* for other budding entrepreneurs. The town’s collective backing illustrates the profound impact community can have on young, ambitious traders.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Young Horsham Trader Competition?
Applicants must be aged 18-30, operate a business within the Horsham District, and trade at least twice a month in local markets.
When and where is the national final held?
The final takes place in November at Birmingham’s iconic Bullring Market Hall, gathering regional winners from across the UK.
How can I support Sarah’s journey?
Visit her stall on Saturdays at Horsham Market, follow @GardenToJar, or pre-order seasonal hampers via her website.
What prizes are awarded to the national winner?
Awards include £5,000 seed funding, a year of business mentorship, and a feature in Traders Monthly magazine.