A special pop‑up trading event is coming to Cwmbran town centre on Saturday 19 September, giving local aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to sell their products in front of shoppers after completing a new business support programme.
The event is the finale of Ready to Trade: Torfaen, a free UK Government‑funded programme delivered by M Cwmbran in partnership with Torfaen County Borough Council, Business Direct Torfaen, Growth Torfaen and Welsh ICE (Innovation Centre for Enterprise).
Participants take part in weekly workshops covering topics such as pricing, routes to market and preparing to trade at events. They will receive one‑to‑one mentoring to refine their business ahead of the pop‑up day.
📅 Thursday 13 August: Pricing, Profitability & Business Basics
📅 Thursday 20 August: Selling & Routes to Market
📅 Thursday 27 August: Trader Readiness & Event Preparation
The programme is designed to help new traders, makers, creatives, food producers and early‑stage businesses build confidence and practical skills before stepping onto the high street for the first time.
Adam Martin, Head of Bristol at LCP UK and Asset Manager for M Cwmbran, said: “‘Ready to Trade: Torfaen’ gives local entrepreneurs a genuine route from idea to income. We’re proud to open M Cwmbran’s doors to support the next generation of traders and to give them a live platform to test their offer in front of real customers.”
Cllr Jo Gauden, executive member for economy, skills and regeneration at Torfaen Council, said: “This programme is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who has ever considered starting their own business but hasn’t known where to begin. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge later in life or are ready to turn a business idea into a reality, the support available through Torfaen Business Direct can help you build the confidence, skills and connections needed to succeed.”
She said supporting local entrepreneurs is vital for strengthening the economy and helping communities thrive.
Lesley Williams, chief executive officer at Welsh ICE, said: “Ready to Trade puts local businesses and local people at the heart of high street regeneration. Many participants are already trading; what they need now is the confidence, practical knowledge and real world experience to understand whether the high street is the right next step, and how to make that move successfully.
“At Welsh ICE, we’ve seen how breaking down barriers to retail can help small businesses grow, strengthen town centres and give communities a greater stake in the places where they live. A resilient high street needs a diverse mix of independent businesses shaped around what local people and visitors genuinely want.”
Spaces on the programme are offered on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
You can book a place through Torfaen Council by email at [email protected] or call 01633 648735.