Former indoor market earmarked as town’s new food and drink hub

Husband and wife hospitality industry team, Simon and Fiona Beer, are behind a new food and drink market destined for Ormskirk town centre, as part of a six-figure investment.

The site, the former indoor market on Moorgate, is expected to open later this autumn and create around 80 jobs.

The market was originally built in 1903 as the home of Hesfords DIY & Gardening company.

Plans include a home for a new food hall, as well as six kitchens, an immersive games loft, bar area, private hire space, several retail outlets and live music space.

Spanning across two floors, the 10,000 sq ft site will showcase vendors from the local area.

Simon and Fiona Beer are Ormskirk residents and are behind the EPIC aparthotel brand, in and around Liverpool city centre.

Simon said: “We’ve been dreaming about doing this for many years.

“We want to reimagine this historic space with a modern concept that can thrive while emulating the success of similar sites in other UK market towns.

“Having been left abandoned for many years, we want to bring this space back to life and to what it was so well known for locally – a market building.

“We’ll be keeping its original features, such as the iconic clock face, as well as some of the signage that has been here since day one.”

While contributing to the local area’s economy, Ormskirk Food & Drink Market will also create up to 80 jobs with the team currently on a recruitment drive for roles, including the venue’s general manager.

Fiona said: “Many people from this area have to travel into Liverpool if they want food, drinks, and entertainment on this scale, but that will no longer be the case. Ormskirk Food & Drink Market will offer a taste of the city centre, and the restaurants and bars that it has within it, much closer to home.

“Venues like ours will open new avenues for people on our doorstep to explore.”

She added: “Our brand ethos is Eat, Meet and Play, so whether it’s family time, fun with friends, date nights or days out accompanied by your dog, this is a space for everyone to enjoy, all under one historic roof.”

The plans will provide a platform for emerging local ventures and Fiona said: “This is a real opportunity to showcase what the area has to offer, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to see just what we have been working on for so long and to enjoy what Ormskirk Food & Drink Market is all about.”