Traders at Brixton market have launched a last-minute campaign to buy the site for community ownership, fearing that a sale to a private equity firm could drive out the long-standing independent businesses that give the market its character. The Buy Back Brixton campaign has reached the second stage of the bidding process, competing against multinational companies, with a decision expected within days. Traders warn that further corporate ownership could accelerate gentrification already seen in the market, echoing changes at Camden and Old Spitalfields.

Brixton Village and Market Row, listed for £50m, are currently owned by a company controlled by Texas businessman and DJ Taylor McWilliams, whose earlier plan to build a 20-storey office block was withdrawn in 2023 after community backlash. After a subsequent £80m asking price drew little interest, multiple parties, reportedly including private equity firms, emerged in June, prompting traders to launch an emergency fundraising drive. Supported by the Advocacy Academy, local MP Helen Hayes and Lambeth council leader Martin Abrams, they have raised £565,000 through public donations plus charitable investment to submit what they call a "comprehensive and competitive" bid for a market home to vendors from more than 50 countries, including a strong Windrush-era African-Caribbean community.