With an expert panel of judges joining Nigel Barden and Elaine Lemm, Chair of Judges, the Awards recognise the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement, offered by our heroes of the high-street.

The Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards are a fantastic way for specialist retailers in the food and drink sector to showcase all the great work you and your team are doing nationally and with your local customers.

Time is precious for many of you, which is why this year we have made entering the Retailer Awards quicker and easier than ever with the new Express Entry System.

Express Entry must close on the 31st August 2026. Submit your initial entry in just a few minutes with a quick set of questions about your business.

⏳ Miss the window, miss your chance to enter.

How It Works: Two Stages

Stage 1: Express Entry (closes 31st August)
A short, streamlined entry to get you started. You’ll need to submit:

1) Basic business details (name, address, phone number, region, business type)
2) Website and/or social media link
3) A photo of your store front / business
4) Answer a clear question to allow us to get to know your business and your values.

Following the Express Entry, successful applicants will be asked to complete a more in-depth application form with more information regarding their impact on the local community, sustainability, business growth and staff development. Take a look at our entry tips for further details on Stage 2 questions.

For 2027, the Retailer Awards are proud to team up with Academy of Cheese to support all the amazing cheesemongers across the UK and Northern Ireland. We’re pleased to announce our 2027 Cheesemonger of the Year winners will also be awarded an Education Package of Academy (Self-Study) Certification, courtesy of our friends at Academy of Cheese, worth £500.

If you would like to speak to a member of the team regarding commercial or sponsorship opportunities for the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards, please see our dedicated page.