Merrick Flea Market fills Big A void

When the Aqueduct Flea Market shut down for good, many deal-hunting shoppers were left searching for a new market to scour.
Aqueduct Flea Market closed December 31, after 30 years of business, to give way for Resorts World New York, the Racino, restaurant and entertainment center that is now under construction at the Aqueduct site.
Mike Berman, managing partner of BP Real Estate Investors, decided to open up Merrick Flea Market because of the lack of a flea markets in the area.
“I love the flea market business,” said Berman, who went to talk to the vendors at Aqueduct and gauge their interest when he heard the market was closing. “It’s a way that somebody with the smallest amount of capital can go into business and it’s very inspiring to see people of all ages and backgrounds come in and sell merchandise.”
To help with the transition, Berman installed former Aqueduct Flea Market manager Brain Baxter as manager at Merrick. Baxter brings more than 20 years of experience and connections with the Aqueduct vendors to the new flea market. According to Berman, a rush of vendors from Aqueduct relocated to Merrick so they could sell merchandise year-round.
Located at 221-02 Merrick Boulevard in Springfield Gardens, the heated, indoor market houses approximately 150 vendors selling everything from the latest knickknack to discounted electronics. Berman said the concept of the flea market was tested last September as a result of the closing of other outdoor flea markets for the season and the permanent closing of Aqueduct Flea Market.
Berman said the opening of the flea market is a positive aspect that he hopes will bring more shoppers to Merrick Boulevard, which is the home of additional stores and restaurants. There is something about a flea market that draws shoppers in, according to Berman.
“Shoppers love to see the newest things for cheap prices,” he said. “Everyone hopes to find something that’s a diamond in the rough.”
Additionally, any charity, religious group, or non-profit organization interested in fundraising can do so for free as part of a special program available.
“We want to be a good neighbor to all of our vendors, especially other businesses in the area,” said Berman. “We’re happy about what we’re doing to bring more people to Merrick Boulevard and hope it’ll benefit all merchants.”
For hours and more information, visit merrickfleamarket.com or call 718-341-3532. – With additional reporting by Steve Mosco