Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Sarah Griffin, founder of Garden to Jar, progresses to the national finals of the National Market Traders Federation competition.
- Her success spotlights Horsham’s thriving market scene and supportive community for young traders.
- Garden to Jar’s sustainable, handcrafted preserves have earned widespread acclaim.
- Local entrepreneurs draw inspiration from Sarah’s journey and achievements.
Table of Contents
Background of the Young Trader
From market stall to national stage, Sarah Griffin’s entrepreneurial journey began at Horsham’s bustling young traders market. Driven by her passion for sustainable, handcrafted preserves, she founded Garden to Jar, transforming locally sourced produce into artisanal delights.
- Started trading at age 23 with a single stall.
- Focus on eco-friendly packaging and minimal waste.
- Quickly gained a loyal customer base thanks to inventive flavours.
Horsham Market Scene
The lively trading atmosphere in Horsham town centre has become an incubator for entrepreneurial talent. Horsham Markets offers young traders:
- A vibrant platform to showcase innovative products.
- Networking and mentorship opportunities with seasoned stallholders.
- Direct customer feedback for fine-tuning offerings.
National Competition Details
Sarah’s ascent through the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) competition is nothing short of inspiring.
- Contest open to traders aged 16–30.
- Judged on innovation, sustainability and business acumen.
- Final to be held in Manchester this autumn.
Achievements & Recognition
Sarah’s trophy cabinet is filling fast:
- Winner of Horsham local heat.
- Champion of the South-East regional final.
- Earned the coveted Market Trader of the Year title.
“Winning the regional final was an incredible moment,” Sarah reflected. “It’s a testament to the support I’ve received from the Horsham community.”
Impact on the Community
Sarah’s success has created a ripple effect across Horsham:
- Surge in young trader applications at the weekly market.
- Heightened awareness of sustainable business practices.
- Community pride fostered through collective celebration.
Local shopkeeper Jane Smith noted, “Sarah’s journey shows our young people that with dedication—and Horsham’s backing—big dreams can start small.”
Business Showcase: Garden to Jar
Garden to Jar specialises in eco-conscious preserves that marry traditional techniques with bold new flavours.
- Signature strawberry & lavender jam—a regional favourite.
- Interactive stall displaying seasonal produce facts.
- Packaging made from 100% recycled materials.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Sarah plans to expand distribution to local farm shops, collaborate with Sussex growers, and introduce a limited-edition winter chutney line—all while maintaining her green ethos.
FAQs
Who is Sarah Griffin?
Sarah is the 24-year-old founder of Garden to Jar, a sustainable preserves brand originating from Horsham’s young traders market.
What makes Garden to Jar unique?
The business combines locally sourced ingredients, inventive flavours, and fully recyclable packaging to deliver eco-friendly, gourmet preserves.
How does the NMTF competition work?
Traders aged 16–30 progress through local heats, regional finals and finally the national final, judged on innovation, sustainability, and commercial acumen.
When is the national final?
The final is scheduled for late autumn in Manchester; exact dates will be confirmed by the NMTF.
How can locals support Sarah?
Visit her stall at Horsham Market, purchase Garden to Jar products online, and share her story on social media to amplify community pride.