Ffos Caerffili traders celebrate a successful first year

Daniel Bevan - Senior Journalist

Entrepreneurs are celebrating a successful year at Ffos Caerffili, Caerphilly’s flagship container-style market, as it marks its first anniversary.

Ffos Caerffili opened in April 2024, introducing a modern commercial and leisure space to replace the town’s old indoor market.

In just 12 months, the market and food court has quickly established itself as a destination venue, earning national attention with features on BBC’s Chris Cooks Cymru and Escape to the Country, and being named one of the UK’s best food halls by The Sunday Times.

Among the success stories is Tomas Williams, a 27-year-old from Llanbradach, who left his job as a computer-aided design technician to open The Lockup Bottle Shop at Ffos Caerffili.

Drawing on his background supporting his family’s cider business, Tom now offers a carefully curated selection of independent beers, wines, ciders, and spirits.

“It kind of dawned on me that there was nothing anywhere near Caerphilly offering that sort of product,” Tom said. “So, I thought why not me? I’m a lot more independent and work longer hours now but there’s so much potential for growth.”

Tom was already aware of the Caerphilly Town 2035 development masterplan when he saw the initial adverts for Ffos Caerffili.

“I thought how great would it be to be involved in that from the start?” Tom said. “Caerphilly grows and we grow with it, you know?

“It’s been really exciting this first year. I’m thankful for having met so many great customers. I’m hopeful that the coming years will bring a lot more success and more good memories. Hopefully I’ll be here for another ten.”

Ian Butterworth, 36, also saw an opportunity to launch his own venture. He co-founded Two Shot Social with business partner and school friend Daf Carter, taking on two units at Ffos Caerffili.

Ian, a quantity surveyor by trade, said the business is thriving and now employs ten staff, including three full-time team members.

“It’s been brilliant to provide speciality coffee and quality food for the people of Caerphilly,” Ian said.

“We definitely look forward to growing from here. Our goal from the beginning was to establish our own chain and take it from there.

“It’s a brilliant vibrant community of traders at Ffos Caerffili and it’s going to be fantastic to celebrate this anniversary with everyone this month.