Residents and visitors are invited to show their support for primary school pupils across Carmarthenshire this week as they take on the challenge of running their own businesses for a day.

The Junior Traders Market Events are an annual initiative delivered in partnership to give schools across the county the opportunity to experience what it is like to trade in a real market environment. Pupils work in teams to plan, budget, create and sell products to the public, developing valuable enterprise and life skills.

The events are developed collaboratively by a range of partners, including Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanelli Town Council, Llanelli Community Partnership and local schools, with delivery supported locally in each town.

The Junior Traders Market Events 2026 will take place at:

This year, the events will see strong participation from local schools, with 13 schools taking part in Llanelli, 6 in Carmarthen, and 5 in Ammanford.

Stalls will be located near the main market areas in each town, helping to bring extra activity and colour to the town centres as pupils put their business ideas into practice and engage with local shoppers.

Each school team will plan their own product or service, manage their budget and run their stall on the day. Pupils will develop key skills including teamwork, communication, money management and customer engagement.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member Rural Affairs, Communities, and Welsh Language, Cllr Carys Jones, said:“The Junior Traders Market Events provide a fantastic opportunity for our young people to gain first-hand experience of running a business. Taking part helps pupils build confidence, learn valuable life skills and develop a real sense of achievement.

“It is always inspiring to see the creativity and enthusiasm they bring to our town centres, and I wish all the participating schools every success this May.”