San Joaquin Delta College’s Market at Delta College has been a mainstay of the Stockton scene for over 30 years. Delta’s Market is known as a safe, friendly environment for vendors and customers alike. The large weekend crowds are a testament to that productive history.
Though successful, stiff competition from other area markets has cut into the Market at Delta's vendor participation over the last two years. Currently, the Market’s 641 rental spaces are operating at 70% on Saturdays, and 90% on Sundays. Not standing still, Market management is moving to rectify that situation.
“In addition to low vendor space rental fees, we have eliminated the City of Stockton’s Peddlers Permit for Market vendors,” says Fidel Cabuena, Delta’s Director of Auxiliary Services. “The Stockton’s Peddlers Permit fee cost vendors up to $33 extra per space.”
Obviously, not good for business.
“We have negotiated an exclusive Itinerant Merchant Business License with the City of Stockton,” explains Cabuena. “This exclusive agreement covers all Market at Delta College vendors. Our agreement saves vendors that extra fee.” Cabuena expects the agreement to bring back Market vendors who left in 2014-15.”
Market at Delta assistant Charles Fregoso is excited about the new agreement. “Market revenues assist the Delta College Foundation fundraising programs, which provide so many educational opportunities to our students and community. We’re grateful to the City of Stockton for working with the college to make this a ‘win win’ for everyone!”
Fregoso points out that the Market is currently offering a “$10 Saturday Savings” on all space rentals thru October. “On Sundays, we have a great regular price of $20; food carts/trucks are $50-$75.” Fregoso highlights that Market’s regular space and food cart/truck fees are friendlier than competing market prices. “Vendors should check out Delta College and compare.”
Not just concerned about fees, the Market at Delta College is constantly working to improve the customer experience. The Market has made improvements that Fidel Cabuena feels give it additional “advantages over our competitors.” Those enhancements include the digital age: ATM access at the Market Office; real time transactions including credit card payments, space rentals and receipts. In addition, the Market has always been known for its safe environment, utilizing security cameras, Market Office alarms, and increased Delta Police presence.
“We also like to give back to the community,” emphasizes Cabuena. “The Market at Delta College hosts free community events, health fairs in partnership with UOP, and a Vendor Appreciation Family Day.”
The Market is open every weekend, 6 a.m. - 3 p.m., in Delta’s Budd 4 Parking Lot “rain or shine,” adds Charles Fregoso. “The Market at Delta College has great deals and should be one of your regular weekend stops. See you at The Market!”
The Market at Delta College!
Photos Courtesy Tim Huynh
