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The Charlatans’ Tim Burgess to host ‘Merch Market’ in aid of bands
Been there, done that, got the t-shirt.
Thomas Melia -
27th March 2025 
Tim Burgess, frontman of legendary band The Charlatans, is set to launch a one-off ‘Merch Market’ event, and its core purpose is to support bands.
He might have a ‘Jesus Hairdo’ but he’s currently serving as a good Samaritan as The Charlatans‘ Tim Burgess is putting on an event solely focusing on funding bands via gig merch and other apparel.
Running across a variety of live music locations within Manchester city centre, the day-long event is called ‘Merch Market’, and it’s encouraging music lovers and bands alike to tag along.
Although ticket sales, album sales and streams are critical in funding the careers of all the artists we know and love, one key drive in securing actual revenue in the music industry is merchandise.
‘Merch Market’ is taking place at O2 Ritz as well as adjacent venues Gorilla and Dog Bowl across the road with a special appearance from ‘Tim Peak’s Diner’, the caffeinated brainchild of Tim Burgess.
The whole point of this event is to make sure that bands can receive the full 100% of merch sales without any cuts from any third party.
Fronted by The Charlatans lead singer Tim Burgess, ‘Merch Market’ is building off his 2021 gathering, which had a similar initiative with ‘Vinyl Adventure’ encouraging the sale of physical music and media.
Alongside stocking up your wardrobe with all the latest band t-shirts, hoodies and everything in between, there will be an array of interesting performances and talks happening throughout the day.
Entry to this incredible celebration of bands is completely free of charge and, better still, there are chances to win some seriously cool prizes – including some tasty festival tickets.
Expect stalls, live DJ sets, interviews, panels and even a chance to bag yourself VIP tickets for UK festival, Kendal Calling, which Burgess will be returning for 2025.
Burgess is a man of many talents as he will not only be hosting this fantastic initiative, but he will also be hosting a stall of his own and singing a couple of his biggest hits.
Bands don’t have to worry about forking out a fortune for renting a stall either as tables at ‘Merch Market’ are free, the only thing musicians have to bring is their merch and charming personalities.
So whether you’re an artist with leftover stock from your last tour or a music lover who just missed out on snagging a snap back, head down to these three venues on 25 May.
This also doubles as the perfect opportunity for any fans of The Charlatans to buy that all-so-important merch ahead of their Castlefield Bowl gig this summer.
Read more:
- Madness announce huge Manchester gig on upcoming UK tour
- Bastille announce blockbuster Manchester arena date for special anniversary show
- Music TV show Spill The Sound has announced a brand new series
And if you needed any more reason to go, may we remind you that Salford’s very own blonde, bowl-cut bombshell, Tim Burgess, will be in attendance.
Once again, ‘Merch Market’ hosted by the man himself is taking place on 25 May and is completely free to attend.
Bands and businesses looking to sell their merch can sign up through Help Us Help Bands HERE.
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Featured Image — Publicity Picture (via Supplied)
