Fleamarket

Whence the term "Flea Market" came from is a mystery. One thing is for sure though, those pesky minute-size parasites known as fleas, are definitely not sold in these markets, unless it unknowingly accompanies the merchandise being sold! While there may not be any official documentation of the flea market phenomenon, there are references toward it which gives a possible rough idea of its origin.

In the past, two references have been made regarding the flea market having its beginning from France around the 1860s. One plausible suggestion is the term being a literal translation of an outdoor bazaar in Paris: marche aux puces. This term was made in allusion to the fleas infesting the old furniture items that were brought out for sale in the bazaar.

The other mention of the probable source of the flea market term came as a result of Emperor Napolean III's plan to 'renovate' central Paris which involves demolishing alleys, slums and old merchant dwellings; highly populated with second-hand dealers. As a result, many of these merchants lost their place of barter. Luckily, these dislodged merchants were allowed to trade their wares freely in the north of Paris and the first stalls were set up around 1860. The jamboree of these refugees was later known as the marche aux puces.

Regardless of the flea market's birth, there has and probably always will be a steady stream of people who will frequent such places, hence its survival after so many centuries. Plus, this industry, though not documented, is purported to be a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide! In the United States alone there are roughly 5000 flea markets, swap meets, antique markets, collectible markets and such. Imagine the worldwide figure!

Regardless of the flea market's birth, there has and probably always will be a steady stream of people who will frequent such places, hence its survival after so many centuries. Plus, this industry, though not documented, is purported to be a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide! In the United States alone there are roughly 5000 flea markets, swap meets, antique markets, collectible markets and such. Imagine the worldwide figure!

The popularity of setting up a stall at such venues is the inexpensive cost for the vendors. After all, what is required is to rent the space before commencing to sell his/her wares. There is no need to dish out large capital nor is there a long term commitment here. For the customers, flea markets offer a wide variety of wares at low prices due to the low overheads.

Another advantage for frequenting flea markets, which operates during daylight hours, is the unique items offered. Almost anything can be found at these markets ranging from dry edible products to antiques and collectors items. Most often than not these places offer a cacophony of fascinating items which are difficult, even impossible to find in normal shopping malls and shops, at a fraction of the price of something new.