Variety of breads at the Julian’s Artisan Bakery Pic: Imogen Page-Jarrett

An independent bakery has announced expansion plans following on from its success in Surrey Street Market in Croydon.

Besides continuing to trade on Sundays, Julian’s Artisan Bakery is planning to extend its trading days to reach more customers on Wednesdays and Saturdays because it has proven so popular with locals.

Julian’s Artisan Bakery is an independent bakery, whose core business is baking and selling rustic European breads and patisserie. Julian’s bread is made locally with organic flour. The ingredients are natural and healthy, such as nuts and seeds and bakers avoid using any artificial additives. Besides traditional loaves like whole rye, brioches and challah, they also introduce a variety of new breads and pastries to try each week.

Julian says he is inspired by the bread-making processes of other parts of Europe, and feels privileged to sell breads in Surrey Street Market because of the diverse community it serves.

Surrey Street market Pic: Jane Zhou

The bread somehow “transcends” itself , he believes, by connecting people. For some it evokes memories of home in an almost “spiritual” way. It’s not just about the bread, he says, it’s about the community and culture.

Julian’s extended business hours come at a time of re-invigoration for its market location. Croydon council is reported to be investing in a £1m refurbishment of the street, which is due to be finished before Easter.

Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs, told Development Croydon he was very pleased with the project’s progress. He said: “I’m delighted that the determination of traders means that with the support of Croydon Council and the market team we are going to see them continue building on their already loyal base of regular customers.”

Julian is one trader clearly benefiting from the historic market face-lift. He said: “It’s fantastic that the council has been giving funds to improve the byway and make it look better, which it really needs, because the market has been used so much, but it hasn’t got anything for a long time.”

He continued: “The investment shows the dedication the council has to support traders. Hopefully the investment will give everyone lift to regenerate this private market”.

But some stallholders wanted better promotion to put the market on the map.

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