Street vendor

Street Vendor

A Street Vendor is a person who offers goods or services for sale to the public without having a permanent built up structure from which to sell. Street vendors are a large and very visible workforce in cities, yet it is difficult to accurately estimate their numbers. Estimates suggest that the number of street vendors in the world could be around 10 million, or even much higher.

History

The history of Street Vending is an ancient occupation, dating back at least to ancient Rome. Street vendors have been recorded in literature and art throughout history, from the peddlers in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet to the flower sellers in modern day cities.

Types of Street Vendors

There are two broad categories of street vendors: stationary vendors and mobile vendors. Stationary Vendors are those who operate from a fixed location, such as a sidewalk or a public square. Mobile Vendors are those who move from place to place, often pushing or carrying their wares.

Goods and Services

Street vendors sell a wide variety of goods and services. In many cities, food is the most common type of product sold, with vendors offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to prepared meals. Other common goods include clothing, accessories, household items, and electronics. Some street vendors offer services such as shoe shining, mobile phone repair, or bicycle maintenance.

Legal and Social Issues

Street vending is often a contentious issue. On one hand, it provides a source of income for many people who might otherwise be unemployed. On the other hand, street vendors can cause congestion, and there are often concerns about the safety and quality of the goods they sell. Many cities have regulations governing street vending, but these are often not enforced, leading to conflicts between vendors, city officials, and established businesses.

See Also

• Informal Economy
• Hawker (trade)
• Peddler