Plzeň will open a city market at the DEPO2015 site at the end of September

Plzeň - Plzeň will open a permanent city market at the DEPO2015 complex at the end of September. The hall, where public transport vehicles were previously repaired, will be renovated for 3.5 million crowns. The market will offer food, seasonal products, and design. Six permanent farmer’s and artisan shops will be open five to six days a week for at least four hours a day. Jiří Suchánek, the head of DEPO2015, told ČTK. DEPO2015 is a space for cultural and educational events as well as support for creative entrepreneurship, where gastronomic festivals have been held for several years, attracting thousands of visitors regularly.

“In the very valuable industrial hall Skleník from the 1930s, a space for meeting and relaxation will be created, with workshops, lectures, and events focused on a healthy lifestyle, ecology, and design,” said the director of DEPO2015. The construction modifications of the 500 square meter hall will be carried out during August, when the operation of the hall will be significantly limited. “We do not want to profit or incur losses from this. The market will not burden the city operationally,” he added. The investment mainly involves the purchase of five shipping containers and the conversion of the Skleník hall into a bistro, kitchen, and children's corner. Exhibitions are currently held in the Skleník.

“In the study commissioned by the city, the people of Plzeň clearly stated that they want the market. It will combine seasonal products with design, services, and interesting events,” said Mayor Martin Zrzavecký (ČSSD). There will be a permanent farmer's shop or services related to gastronomy and craftsmanship. “We are looking for operators,” he added.

The permanent shops, ranging from 15 to 30 square meters, with a monthly rent starting at 2500 crowns, will make up about one-fifth of the hall area. Up to 30 vendors in wooden stalls will be present among them. For large events, such as the September Book World and Harvest Festival, DEPO2015 will also utilize the adjacent bus hall and courtyard.

“At least every last Sunday of the month, the market will have a theme. For example, in spring, herbs and seedlings,” Suchánek stated. During the fruit and vegetable harvest time, there will be a wide variety of offerings from different vendors. The market will naturally connect with PěstírnouDEPO - a community garden where people can grow their own herbs and vegetables in giant pots. There will also be a leather workshop, framing, and barbering. The director was heavily inspired by Aarhus in Denmark.

The event is not meant to compete with the farmer's markets in the square in Plzeň, which have been held every Saturday since March. DEPO2015 collaborates with them on thematic events. “We welcome every platform that allows the sale of fine food and supports new food producers and design delicacies,” said Tomáš Popp, who organizes the markets in the square.