How Pingmin Market Helps Self Entrepreneurs Grow Business
by Ricebowl Team
Jul 29, 2024
at 4:28 PM
Looking for local handmade jewelry, unique bakery items, or tarts you won’t easily find in supermarkets? This is where Pingmin Market steps in, highlighting unique small food producers. "平民市集" Pingmin Market is a small cultural and creative market for everyday people. It was created to bring a cultural and creative vibe to different communities, boost local economic and cultural growth, and give industry experts and self-made brands a chance to reach more people. PingMin is dedicated to helping local creative entrepreneurs earn a living from their passion.
Founders of Pingmin Market
Image source: Sinchew
Estica Teh, who created the 白白 PutihPutih edamame milk brand, and Terrance Lim, the owner of The Sherry café in Taman OUG, started Pingmin Market to support new food and beverage entrepreneurs who are just beginning. The idea for Pingmin Market came up during discussions with their market vendors. Teh explains, “We want to help these handmade, home-based businesses thrive during tough times by providing resources and connections we have.”
Pingmin Market Helps Self Entrepreneurs Grow Business
Estica Teh explains, “During the first movement control order (MCO), many of us who were affected needed new ways to earn money. Lots of people started their own brands with great products but didn’t have much experience in marketing or selling.” Earlier, they had started Pingmin Market as a physical marketplace where vendors could set up pop-up shops, including at Lim’s café. Creative ideas like “High Tea to Go” became a hit.
When the first MCO began, they had to pause in-person events due to social distancing rules. Instead, they used their Pingmin Market Facebook group to give vendors a free online platform to show off their products.
During the second round of MCO earlier this year, Pingmin market had to stop their pop-up markets. Instead, Estica Teh and Terrance Lim switched to hosting frequent Facebook Live shows to update viewers on their vendors’ products and provide educational content. This quick change was inspired by a lesson they learned from their vendors: always stay flexible and adaptable. Estica Teh notes, “We believe that learning should never stop.” For them, this meant stepping out of their comfort zone and embracing new methods, just like their vendors did. They began using Facebook Live to “showcast”—a blend of showcasing and broadcasting. Estica Teh explains, “We use our live shows to feature brands under Pingmin Grocer or other brands we think are worth sharing. Live channels help tell a brand's story and let consumers experience the product directly.”
As things evolve, Pingmin market is ready for new challenges and opportunities. Estica Teh adds, “As people start dining out again, we expect our online sales to slow down, and that’s something we’re prepared for.” For the rest of the year, Pingmin market will focus on restarting and expanding their offline marketplace, Pingmin Market. Estica Teh says, “We plan to bring this market to every state in Malaysia once interstate travel is allowed. This will give crafters and artists a chance to showcase their work and boost tourism in smaller areas.”
This is the essence of Pingmin Grocer: by supporting small food artisans, they help these businesses grow and also have the potential to positively impact the economy in their own unique way. - Source from Malaymail
Interested in selling at local markets but unsure where to begin? Here’s a simple guide to help you get started and earn some extra money.
How to Start Selling at local markets: A Beginner’s Guide
Research Local Markets and Events
Find Local Events: Look for craft fairs in your area through online searches, community boards, or social media.
Check Requirements: Each fair has its own rules, fees, and application processes. Make sure you understand these before applying
Prepare Your Products
Create a Collection: Ensure you have a range of products ready to sell. Quality and presentation are key.
Pricing: Set fair prices by considering materials, time, and market rates. Include a few lower-priced items to attract a wider audience.
Set Up Your Space
Display: Invest in attractive displays and signage to showcase your products. Use tables, racks, and banners to make your booth inviting.
Packaging: Have your products well-packaged and ready for sale. Consider using branded bags or boxes for a professional touch.
Promote Your Booth
Social Media: Share your participation in the craft fair on social media to attract potential customers.
Networking: Connect with other vendors and visitors to spread the word about your products.
Manage Your Sales
Payment Methods: Be prepared to accept various payment methods, including touch n go QR, cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments.
Customer Service: Engage with customers, answer their questions, and provide excellent service to encourage repeat business.
Evaluate and Improve
Feedback: Gather feedback from customers and fellow vendors to learn what worked well and what could be improved.
Reflect: After the fair, review your sales and experience to plan for future events.
Gaining Sales Experience Before Selling at Local Market
