- London, Essex, GB
Land Management, a family-run business, is committed to helping independent traders build their businesses. It owns and operates two large covered markets in contrasting retail locations, both East of London. In addition it provides land and accommodation to a number of small rural businesses on Mersea Island in Essex. Ever since Land Management opened them in 1922 and 1933 respectively, East Ham Market Hall and Romford Shopping Hall have filled a gap between street markets and high street shops. They have provided a low cost start for new retail and service businesses, many of which have now run successfully for decades. Many have been sold or handed down to children, in-laws, nephews and nieces , and in some cases even grandchildren. Belief in the value of small businesses to traders, their families and the wider community is for Land Management a "core value" - something which has been consistently held for a long time, and won't easily change in the future. Land Management is investing at both its markets. At East Ham, it has recently opened a new 12,000 sq ft extension, while at Romford it is planning a major re-build. This rebuild has been in the planning phase for several years, and is expected to start early in 2003. It is thought to be the biggest purpose built indoor market investment in England for some time.