TROON retailers appear to be split down the middle on the introduction of the monthly Saturday market.

Many believe that it is helping their businesses flourish by bringing more people to the town, however, others disagree, commenting that it is deterring people from coming in and taking customers away.

Gary Harris of the Artisan Deli said: “I am concerned that there is a stall 150 yards away, which is in direct conflict with my business.

“Outside traders are coming to the market, from places like Aberdeen and Dumfries. I am 53 and lived in Ayrshire all my life.

“I employ three members of staff and know of at least one customer I have lost. It has been said that business is booming.

“Business is not booming for everyone.”
James Duncan, from Charles Duncan Butchers, agrees with Mr Harris explaining he was told that there was not going to be any competing businesses but there is in fact a butcher stall.

He said: “We were promised when the market was set up that there would not be any competing businesses.

“My understanding is that there is a delicatessen and a butcher there, which is contrary to what I was told when it was initially started up.

“I do not think it is a good thing. Business is tough for independent retailers and fighting against supermarkets as it is.

“We have been here since 1920, so we would like to stay a bit longer.”

Ian Main, of Connor’s Butchers had other concerns.

He added: “I recently had a visit from the environmental health department, they were very thorough but we knew we had nothing to be worried about.

“I did say to the officer that I would expect the butcher at the market to come under the same regulations as shops.

“I was assured that they would be, so if that is the case I would have no problem with the market.

“We have not noticed any difference in business, up or down.”
Other businesses throughout Troon say the market is helping their business grow.

Marion McLean, owner of Pooch Pantry, said: “There is not anyone else selling our type of products, but we do find that the footfall has increased on market days, so far.

“They perhaps don't normally come to this part of Troon, so we are supportive of the market.

“Competition is fierce and you have to work hard in retail and we are now doing two of the markets, at Dumfries House and Culzean Castle.

“They are under the same umbrella as the Troon Market, so we have turned things around and embracing the market.”

Colin Byron, of Blueberrys Coffee Shop: “I think the market is a positive thing for the town – as long as they change the stalls every month.

“If it stays the same people will get fed up with it, but it has not affected our business.

“They put stalls on the grass, right opposite us, which was good for us and it brings people to the town.”

Davinder Singh, owner of a convenience store in the town, added: “I am not sure what they sell at the market but I do not think they have many items that I have in here.

“It is only every month, but if it is bringing more people into the town centre then it has to be good for business.

“Our shop is always busy at the weekend and I have not noticed much difference.”