Independent retailers across the UK are invited to celebrate the shops that bring their communities together.
The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has opened nominations for its Love Your High Street Awards 2026, giving communities across the UK the chance to recognise the independent retailers that make their local high streets special.
Independent shops are being invited to nominate their favourite businesses, with the awards celebrating the creativity, passion and contribution of retailers who help bring character and community to towns and cities across the country.
Nominations opened on 3rd August and will close on 30th August, after which a judging panel will select a shortlist on 7th September. The public vote will then open on 14th September, running until 11th October, with the overall winner announced on 26th October.
Every year we’re blown away by the passion and creativity shown by independent retailers up and down the country. These awards are a chance for communities to say thank you to the shops that give their high streets character and heart.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira
The awards follow the success of the inaugural Love Your High Street Awards, which recognised businesses that go beyond traditional retail to create memorable experiences for their communities.
Last year’s winner was Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, a unique business combining barbering with local railway heritage.
The judges praised the business for creating more than just a shop, describing it as a welcoming space where visitors could experience nostalgia, history and community.
Other businesses were also highly commended, including Black City Records in Bristol, DRAKE The Bookshop in Stockton-on-Tees, Frankie & Johnny’s Cookshop in York and Rocket & Bird in Taunton, which received special recognition for supporting local makers and helping establish the Taunton Independent Quarter.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “We’d encourage everyone to get behind their local favourites and nominate the businesses that deserve recognition. It’s a wonderful way to shine a light on the independent spirit that makes our high streets so special.”
Those taking part in the nomination process will also have the opportunity to receive free Love Your High Street stickers to display in their shop windows.
The awards will culminate during Love Your High Street Week, taking place from 9-15th November, when the winner will be celebrated as part of a wider campaign encouraging consumers to support their local high streets.
To nominate a business, visit this link here.
 has opened nominations for its Love Your High Street Awards 2026.){kind=link}