Aishah Ennakhoui & Sneha Begum (Y12): Borough Market business trip
On Wednesday 22nd of December, Year 12 IBCP and IBDP Business students had the privilege to investigate small artisan businesses at one of London’s most iconic institutions - Borough Market.
For most of us, it was our first time exploring one of London’s oldest and largest food markets which has its origins from 1014 and thereby being part of its rich heritage.
With over 100 delicatessens, butchers, fishmongers, cheesemakers, bakers and other small businesses selling fresh produce, meats, artisanal delicacies and more, we were spoilt for choice.
The trip required us to talk to small artisan businesses and explore their business operations and distribution channels.
In order for us to do this in a purposeful way, we had to use various business tools and theories we learnt in Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign such as conducting a PESTLE and SWOT analysis and exploring the 7P of the marketing mix (product, place, promotion, price, physical environment, people and process). Through the data we collected, we were able to understand the internal and external factors that affect small businesses operating at Borough Market and how they have responded to them by adapting their products to meet the constant change in consumer taste and buying habits.
In addition, we enjoyed interacting with the market staff and receiving advice on how to start a small business and also enjoying free samples of different products such as olives, breads and cheeses. The trip enabled us to use our knowledge from our other Business units such as in Unit 1: Exploring Businesses, we are currently studying the importance of sustainable businesses and this was apparent when we visited the different stalls in the market. For example, a lot of businesses are focused on reducing waste and using recyclable and biodegradable packaging to make a positive impact on the environment.
We also had a great time enjoying artisanal crumbles at Humble Crumble which describes itself as being the “Worl’d first crumble bar”. We were able to discover amazing flavours of crumbles with our favourite ones being the apple and cinnamon crumble with hot custard. We feel that these trips are very helpful and give us an insight on the day to day running of small artisan businesses whilst also bringing the practical element of the course.
Borough Market was also getting ready for Christmas and had an incredibly vibrant atmosphere and a lively ambience which we all enjoyed.
Thank you to Mr Khan and Ms Jennings for giving us the opportunity to be part of this trip.
Aishah Ennakhoui and Sneha Begum (Y12)
IBCP Business Students