FleaMarketZone reported last week on Manhattan’s Limelight Marketplace, which houses high-end vendors in the walls of an old church-turned-nightclub. Well, the tony flea market’s public relations contact, Leah Minium, responded in great detail to a range of questions. Here are the answers she sent to those questions.
FleaMarketZone: What inspired the opening of a new marketplace in the middle of this particular economy?
Limelight Marketplace: Welcoming innovative retailers and entrepreneurs at a fraction of the cost of a street-front address, Limelight Marketplace provides a turn-key solution to startups and established brands looking for a presence in the New York City retail market. Reducing start-up and maintenance costs for boutique brands through a unique in-house business model, Limelight Marketplace supplies participants with state of the art POS systems; technology; store build-out and maintenance support; branded materials; and marketing, PR, and visual merchandising services.
FMZ: Are you looking for affluent shoppers with disposable income, or for bargain-hunters? Who is your target demographic?
Limelight: A premier shopping destination, Limelight Marketplace will house an exceptional scope of retailers where uptown merges with downtown, and street meets luxury. “Our plan offers something for everyone — with high-end fashions and affordable accessories, unique artwork and home decor, a ‘sweet shop’ overflowing with delectable treats, a market offering the ultimate selection of both locally sourced and gourmet foods, multiple eateries, a renowned salon, and much, much more.” — CEO Jack Menashe.
FMZ: How successful has it been so far?
Limelight: Limelight Marketplace has established a powerful retail presence in New York City, having opened its historic doors to throngs of shoppers over the last two months.
FMZ: How many vendors/retailers do you have room for?
Limelight: 60 storefronts.
FMZ: How many of your spaces are currently occupied?
Limelight: All completed spaces are occupied, with construction being completed on restaurant spaces.
FMZ: Do you have a waiting list?
Limelight: We are always looking for the best breed of brands and retailers to come into Limelight Marketplace, and are constantly considering requests.
FMZ: How often do vendors turn over?
Limelight: Contracts range from about 6 to 12 months. As we have only been open for two months, there has not yet been a turn over.
How much do you charge vendors for space?
Limelight: Leases vary due to length, size of space and location in the marketplace.
The flea market also sent a press release, which led to a 30-page online press kit for the chichi retail venue.