Shipping container food venue to launch in market

The repurposed shipping containers will contain food and drink venues as well as a stage and screens

A new food and drink venue built from "stacked" repurposed shipping containers is set to open in Leeds.

The venue will become part of Kirkgate Market and will be spread over two floors and feature 10 food outlets, six bars, a coffee shop, large screens and a stage.

Leeds City Council has confirmed that once all licences and planning applications are approved work could start in early 2026 with a view to the venue opening later that year.

A council spokesperson said the new venue would be "very much part of Kirkgate Market" and part of the local authority's commitment to backing and investing in it.

The development – which is also expected to create 160 jobs – will increase footfall and "broaden the customer base" for the whole market site, they added.

The construction costs will be paid for by leisure company STACK and the rental payments will generate a new income stream for the council.

The outdoor market currently has room 185 stalls but only around 85 of those are filled, even on its busiest days.

But when STAACK launches, the number of pitches would be reduced and the reconfigured area would still be able to "comfortably accommodate" all existing traders – as well as new arrivals, confirmed the council.

Leeds City Council said STACK would integrate into Kirkgate Market

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council's deputy leader, said: "Every person heading to STACK Leeds will also be a potential shopper, whether that's on the day or during a return visit.

"It is this kind of new custom – combined with the much-appreciated support of existing shoppers – that will help the site's many and varied businesses prosper for years to come."

Further STACK venues opened in 2024 in Lincoln, Middlesbrough and at Newcastle United's St James' Park ground.

Neill Winch, STACK's chief executive officer, said: "While STACK continues to grow across the UK, our focus remains on creating spaces that celebrate local culture, support independent businesses and provide somewhere people can come together to enjoy great food, drink and live entertainment."

He added: "Our offer will complement the fantastic outdoor and indoor market by attracting a new audience and, by opening seven days a week from early morning until late, we'll help drive footfall and support the market's wider ecosystem."

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