The term flea market originated with the French marché aux puces. It translates “market of the fleas” and referred to the likely flea-infested used merchandise. They set up and sell their goods from designated spaces called booths or stalls, which they rent from the flea market owners or organizers.Click to see full answer. Also to know is, what’s another name for flea market? Synonyms for flea market farmers’ market. flea fair. garage sale. marche aux puces. rummage sale. street market. swap meet. tag sale. Likewise, how do flea markets work? The flea market owner makes money by renting out these spaces and the renters make money selling their goods. If the flea market has a good location and is in an area that relies on buying used and low cost items to survive, the flea market will be successful. Flea markets also operate strictly with cash. Thereof, who invented flea markets? According to the association that runs one of the markets today, the term first sprang up in the 1880s when an unknown bargain hunter looked upon the market with its rags and old furniture and dubbed it le marché aux puces (“market of fleas”), because of shoppers’ perceptions that some of the more time-worn wares soldWhat is sold at a flea market? Top selling items at flea markets Antiques, electronics and home appliance are among the best items to sell at flea markets and garage sales. Baby/toddler clothing & toys, as well as vintage and designer clothes, sell very well.