Open Saturdays · 8 am – 3 pm · Year Round516 John Street North, Unit 6D · Aylmer, OntarioYour Community, Your Market!
Old Imperial Market, AylmerBook Your Event
Aerial photo of the Imperial Leaf Tobacco Co. plant in Aylmer
Imperial Leaf Tobacco Co. · Courtesy Elgin County
Section 03* — About the Market

Rooted inHistory,Built by Community

A historic Aylmer landmark, reimagined as a home for local makers.

Our Story

20+tons of tobaccoExported each year from this building

The Old Imperial Market is named after the original company that operated this building in 1946, Imperial Leaf Tobacco Co. For decades, Imperial Tobacco was a main employer for the residents of Aylmer and a proud part of Canada’s economy, exporting over 20 tons of tobacco each year. When the company restructured in 2005 and moved its operations to Mexico, the building sat empty for a few years. Then a few local businessmen pooled their money, purchased the building, and gave it a brand new purpose.

Today, we are proud to be an award-winning, year-round market that celebrates and supports the best of what our community has to offer. We are home to some of the most talented and unique small businesses around, from local farmers and fresh produce growers to bakers, crafters, and creators. Come for the history, stay for the people, and take home something made with care!

1946Imperial Leaf Tobacco Co. operates the building and becomes a main Aylmer employer.
2007The company restructures and moves operations to Mexico. The building sits empty.
2011Local businessmen pool their money and purchase the building.
TODAYAn award-winning, year-round market with over 40 local vendors.

Award Winning

Recognized for creating a positive, welcoming space that supports local business.

Small Business

Every booth is a local family business with a story worth sharing.

Heritage Building

Original timber framing and brick preserved inside a renovated tobacco warehouse.

Year Round

Our indoor market is open every Saturday, rain, shine, or snow.

Community First

A gathering place that brings neighbours, families, and visitors together.

Part Two — Space Rental

Event Rental Space

Your next event starts here!

A one-of-a-kind historic venue with a turnkey process from start to finish.

Book Your Event
The market floor under timber beams and string lights, decorated for the holidays

At Old Imperial Market, we love creating the ideal setting for your special occasion. From professional conferences and community events to birthday parties and product launches, our space is designed to fit the needs of any event. The timber beams, original brick, and open layout give every gathering a warm and memorable backdrop.

Our team will help you plan the details, and our talented vendors can provide catering, baked goods, sweet treats, and more. Located in Aylmer, just a short drive south of the 401, we are easy to reach from across Southwestern Ontario.

Turnkey PlanningWe guide you through every step so your event runs smoothly.
Historic CharmOriginal timber and brick create a warm, memorable backdrop.
Flexible SpaceAn open layout that adapts to meetings, parties, and launches.
Local CateringTreat your guests to food and sweets from our market vendors.
All OccasionsPerfect for birthdays, showers, conferences, and community events.
Easy AccessConveniently located in Aylmer, a short drive from the 401.

Perfect For

all kinds of occasions
BIRTHDAY PARTIES01
SHOWERS02
CONFERENCES & MEETINGS03
PRODUCT LAUNCHES04
COMMUNITY EVENTS05
FUNDRAISERS06
How It Works

Three Easy Steps

  1. 01Tell Us About Your EventShare your date, guest count, and the kind of gathering you have in mind.
  2. 02Plan the Details TogetherOur team helps you plan the details, and our vendors can provide catering and sweet treats.
  3. 03Enjoy Your DayRelax and enjoy every moment in one of Aylmer’s most memorable spaces.

BOOK THE SPACE

Tell us about your event

Send us a few details and we will get back to you soon!

Start Your Inquiry