11/09/2026
A look back at Birmingham’s Wholesale Market.
Mark from George Perry Ltd shared these photographs, and they offer a glimpse into a story that stretches back more than 850 years.
Birmingham’s market tradition dates to 1166, when Peter de Birmingham was granted a Royal Charter to hold a market at his castle. Over the centuries, markets moved through the heart of the city, with traders selling everything from cattle and corn to fish, meat, fruit and vegetables.
As Birmingham grew, so did its markets. Smithfield opened in 1817, new fruit and vegetable markets followed at Moat Row in 1883, and specialist meat, fish and livestock markets developed across the city during the 19th century.
By the 20th century, congestion and the redevelopment of the city centre led to plans for a new wholesale market. In 1974, tenants moved into Pershore Street Market, marking another chapter in Birmingham’s long trading history.
Then, in 2018, the market moved once again — this time to its current home at the Hub Industrial Estate in Witton, bringing a centuries-old tradition into a modern wholesale environment.
From medieval traders to today’s fresh produce businesses, the Birmingham Wholesale Market has remained an important part of the city’s commercial life.
Do these old photographs bring back memories for you?
