Massive indoor flea market opens in Houston


 By Ilona Carson

(8/31/06 - KTRK/HOUSTON) - They call it one of the largest indoor flea markets in Texas. So get ready to shop! We're talking about the Armadillo Flea Market, which recently opened in north Houston. So what's all the buzz about? We decided to check it out.

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From perfume to purses and everything in between, at first glance, the Armadillo seems to have it all.

"We provide space for individual entrepreneurs and individual vendors who set up their own small stores within our building," said Armadillo owner Larry Gottaula.

Vendors can rent space from 100 square feet all the way up to 10,000 square feet. But unlike most other flea markets, this one is three football fields long. And it's air-conditioned.

"Especially in the heat of the summer, this is the place to be or the place to shop," said Gottaula.

But does the Armadillo have the great deals and hidden treasures other outdoor flea markets are known for?

"Here, we're kind of able to work with you as far as taking a percentage off," said vendor Joycelyn Barrow. "We're not necessarily governed by what a department store has in mind, so we are able to offer a level of personal service that kind of allows us to kind of meet the expectation of your budget."

That means you can bargain on everything.

"We sell designer fragrances," said vendor Heather Pagarani. "They're all name brands, but at discounted prices."

For example, we found a bottle of Armani perfume that runs $60 retail. Here, it's $35! And while we found a lot of good deals, keep in mind most of the items here are not name brand.

"It's not maybe necessarily practical, but something more fun," said Barrow.

The market is only open Friday through Monday. The Armadillo is located at 431 Airtex Drive. Click here for directions.

(Copyright © 2006, KTRK-TV)
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