In cities and towns around the world, goods and services change hands outside formal channels—on sidewalks, in alleyways, from bicycle carts, or through whispered word-of-mouth networks. This is the realm of what we call “sold on the side.”
These transactions may be unlicensed, undocumented, or simply overlooked by official statistics—but they form a vital part of everyday life for millions. From homemade tamales to repaired electronics, from secondhand books to handmade crafts, the informal economy reflects resilience, creativity, and community.
This page collects stories, observations, and reflections on this parallel marketplace—not to romanticize it, but to understand its role in people’s lives and economies.
Whether you’re a vendor, a customer, or just curious, we invite you to look closer at what’s being sold on the side—and why it matters.