DME Ltd - Frequently Asked Questions
1 - Can anybody trade at a Deborah Martyn event?
No, anyone who applies to participate at a DM event must go through our vetting procedure before being offered a trading space. Our events are high quality and are aimed at the top end of the market towards consumers with a high disposable income. Prospective traders are vetted for quality and diversity of product and, following successful completion of this process, are placed on our Approved Trader list. Once on this list, traders are eligible to participate. Most traders at this level are either professional or semi-professional.
2 - What products do you have at your events?
A healthy mix of food, drink, arts, crafts, textiles and gifts. No two events are ever the same and we are constantly looking to encourage new talent.
3 - How do I get on the Approved Trader list?
You must make arrangements for a DME representative to have sight of your product. This can be through the emailing of pictures, the sending of samples by post, or by physically bringing the product to an event for a DME representative to examine. Call us to discuss which will be the best option for you.
4 - Do my products have to be Cornish?
While we actively encourage local artists and producers, our company ethos is based around the pursuit of excellence. As long as your product is of a very high standard then you stand a good chance of being invited to participate.
5 - I am a member of the Made in Cornwall/Taste of the West schemes. Surely this means I am eligible for your Approved Trader list?
Not necessarily. Made in Cornwall is an excellent business support Approved Origin scheme run by the Trading Standards Department at Cornwall County Council. Cornwall Taste of the West has been set up as part of the EU Objective One programme to support the Cornish food and drink industry. However, membership of these schemes does not automatically mean admittance onto the DME Approved Trader list which is determined by quality as opposed to origin of product.
6 - Are your events cheap?
No. If you want cheap, go to a village hall or a car-boot. If you want to go to some of the most prestigious, well attended events in Cornwall and Devon in the company of highly talented artists and gourmet food producers then you have to expect to pay the appropriate price. We consider that our events are competitively priced and provide excellent value for money.
7 - Do you have any spaces left at any of the shows?
To find out, please check our latest availability listings on the latest news page.
8 - What do I need to bring with me?
We provide a sturdy 6ftx2ft table and an electrical point. You will need to bring a tablecloth/cover, a stool and any electrical equipment (leads, cables, lamps etc) that you need for your display. You are also advised to bring business cards and/or leaflets with your contact details- many traders find that they receive considerable extra business after (sometimes, many months after) the event. If you are new to exhibiting your work it is recommended that you mark out an appropriate size trading space in your garage or your garden and practice setting up your display for greatest visual impact.
9 - When can I set up my display?
Each event opens to the public at 9.30am prompt and, unless stated otherwise, closes at 5.00pm. Some of our events have arrangements for traders to set up the evening before the show starts. Details are sent to participants via email prior to each event.
10 - Is my trading space allocated on a first-come, first-served basis?
No. A floor plan is designed prior to each event with regard to mix of traders, appearance and public enjoyment. When you arrive at the event a DME representative will escort you to your allocated trading space.
11 - What are the other traders like?
Some artists and producers have been in the game for over thirty years. Others are new start-ups who want to make a name for themselves but cannot afford a shop or expensive advertising. What they all have in common is a pleasant attitude to the public and each other and an ability and willingness to work as part of an extended, happy family.
12 - I am disabled. Can I trade at your events?
Yes. As long as your product passes our vetting criteria then there is no problem about your participation. Tell us about your disability and we will make appropriate arrangements. We do not discriminate.
13 - Some of your multi-day events involve a Sunday. My religious beliefs do not permit me to work on a Sunday. Can I still trade at your events?
Yes. If your faith precludes you from Sunday trading, tell us. You can still book the other days in the event and the price will be reduced accordingly.
14 - Where do I park my vehicle?
All vehicles are to be removed from the show site by opening time. If you do not know the show area, your DME representative will advise you of the nearest long-stay parking. Parking permits will be issued by DME at specific events (e.g. National Trust properties).
15 - It will be a long day, I am on my own and I need to go to the toilet. What can I do?
We pride ourselves on customer service at DME and our representative at the event will be happy to look after your stand for ten minutes while you nip to the loo, get a cup of tea, have a ciggie etc. As long as this service is not abused, then we are happy to provide it.
16 - Why do I need a Street Trader Licence at Truro?
Carrick Council have a policy that anyone selling from anything other than a shop unit is a street trader and a licence is required. The application form can be printed from our website. Please send the form to Carrick Council and not to DME. Once issued, the Licence must be on display at your stand at all times. Enforcement officers visit our events and penalties can be severe for non-compliance.
17 - Why do I need Public Liability Insurance?
To protect yourself from litigation from any member of the public who injures or poisons themselves on your stand or with your product. If you do not have this cover you WILL NOT be allowed to trade at a DME or many other events. Do not attempt to buy this insurance from your ordinary household insurer as they do not understand what is required and will charge an arm and a leg for potentially inadequate cover. 95% of our traders get their cover (up to £5 million public liability) through membership of the National Market Traders Federation (www.nmtf.co.uk) . For £70p.a. (2007 rates), you get ample cover at an unlimited number of events. DME recommends the NMTF.
18 - Can I add the Deborah Martyn Approved Trader logo to my banner/ advertising?
Yes you can. Call us and we will email you our advertising pack with appropriate logos.
19 - Can I add my website link to your Links page?
Yes, on a reciprocal no-fee basis. Contact us for details.
20 - I like your website. I want one. Who designed it?
Ben Franklin from F2 Web Design are recommended by DME. Please contact Ben on 07896 685 608.
21 - I have got a number of questions that are not dealt with here. What do I do?
Email DME Ltd or call us on 07974 870397.
