Purpose

To seek delegated authority to proceed to
tender and award a contract, for the appointment of a suitable
operator to deliver and manage Liverpool Christmas Markets at two
key city centre locations:

1. St George’s Hall & St John’s Gardens

2. Pier Head

Decision

For the reasons set out in this report, the
Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing has decided
to:
1)   
Commence a competitive tender exercise for the appointment of a
Christmas Market operator for a period of 3 (three) Christmas
seasons starting November 2026 – November 2029 with the
option to extend for up to 3 (three) further Christmas seasons
(2029 – 2031) at (i) St George’s Hall & St
John’s Gardens, and (ii) Pier Head. Both sites are expected to generate in the
region of £0.050m to £0.100m in income per annum based
on the previous contract.

Alternative options considered

Option 1: Deliver
the Christmas Market In-House
This was considered as there is potential for
greater control over event quality, branding, and alignment with
council objectives, and the potential to maximise social value by
directly employing local staff and suppliers.
However, this option was rejected as there are
significant resource constraints to deliver such an event over two
sites, over a 6-week period.
 
Option 2: Not have a
Christmas Market from 2026 onwards
This was considered on the basis that it would
eliminate operational risk and complexity during a period of
resource pressures.
However, this option was rejected on the basis
that it would have a significant negative economic impact on local
businesses and city centre footfall at a critical time in the
retail and hospitality calendar year. There would also be a loss of
cultural vibrancy and reputational damage to Liverpool as a visitor
destination, contradicting the Council Plan objectives around
economic growth and thriving communities.