Entries open for the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards 2027

Recognised as one of the industry’s most prestigious accolades, the awards shine a spotlight on the businesses, teams and individuals raising standards across specialist food and drink retail. From championing local producers and delivering exceptional customer experiences to driving innovation and supporting communities, the awards celebrate those making a lasting impact throughout the sector.

One of the outstanding winners at the 2026 Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards was Aubrey Allen, which took home three awards including the coveted Retailer of the Year title. Reflecting on the achievement, Butchery Manager Simon Kelly said: “Winning three awards and being Retailer of the Year is the biggest accolade I think any company can get.

“It’s brought in new business for us. People heard about it. People have started coming and trying our products and coming back time and time again. It’s a big boost for us. We’re proud of our shop and the company we work for. And we take a lot of pride in what we do. And now we’re over the moon, absolutely fantastic!”

What’s new for 2027

A simplified entry process: This year, the Retailer Awards have introduced a streamlined two-stage entry process designed to make entering quicker and more accessible than ever before.

Businesses can submit an initial application in less than five minutes during the Stage 1 Express Entry, closing end August.

Successful entrants will then be invited to complete a second-stage submission by the end of September, providing further detail to support their application.

The new approach reduces time commitment upfront while ensuring retailers can fully showcase what makes their business exceptional to the judges.

New judges join the panel: The Awards are delighted to welcome Retailer of the Year winners Aubrey Allen to the 2027 judging panel, represented by Simon Kelly, Butchery Manager, and Russell Allen, Managing Director. Alongside Aubrey Allen, a range of respected retail and industry experts will form the judging panel, each bringing unique expertise and fresh perspectives to the team.

New prize element for Cheesemongers: For the first time, the Retailer Awards are proud to team up with the Academy of Cheese to support all the amazing cheesemongers across the UK and Northern Ireland. The Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards Cheesemonger of the Year winner will be awarded an Education Package of Academy (Self-Study) Certification from the Academy of cheese worth £500!

Chair of Judges Nigel Barden is encouraging retailers from across the sector to put themselves forward and highlights the value of entering the awards: “In a highly competitive retail landscape, standing out has never been more important. The Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards celebrate the businesses setting the benchmark for excellence across specialist food and drink retail. Being shortlisted not only recognises your achievements but also provides a valuable endorsement from a panel of highly respected experts drawn from a wide spectrum of the industry.”

Whether it’s investing in staff development, supporting local communities, creating innovative retail experiences or delivering sustainable initiatives, the 2027 awards are seeking businesses that are making a meaningful difference.

Retailers can enter themselves free of charge, and industry colleagues, suppliers and customers should encourage any worthy retailers they know to enter. Find out more or enter the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards 2027 here.