11 Apr 2026
With more than 2,200 nominations already submitted, the St Albans Retailer of the Year Awards 2026 are set for another standout year – but there is still time for residents to have their say.
Nominations officially close on April 12, marking the final opportunity for the public to champion the businesses they love across the city.
The awards, delivered by The Maltings Shopping Centre in partnership with the St Albans Times, celebrate the very best of St Albans’ retail, hospitality and service sectors, from independent boutiques and salons to national brands, cafés, bars and restaurants.
St Albans City Centre BID is proudly supporting this year’s awards, highlighting their importance in recognising the businesses that shape the city’s unique character.
Chair Alison Berneye said: “St Albans City Centre BID is proud to support the Retailer of the Year Awards as a key celebration of the incredible businesses that shape our city centre. From our independent boutiques and national retailers to our much-loved bars, cafés and restaurants, these awards shine a spotlight on the people and places that make St Albans such a vibrant destination. By championing these awards, we celebrate the retailers, hospitality venues and service providers who strengthen St Albans as a welcoming, diverse and lively place for visitors and businesses.”
With nominations continuing to surge, organisers are encouraging residents not to assume their favourite businesses have already been recognised.
“Every nomination counts,” said Richard Marrett at The Maltings. “Now is the time to show your support and make sure the businesses you love get the recognition they deserve.”
St Albans Times editor Matt Adams added: “You don’t want to be disappointed if your favourite retailer isn’t included on the final shortlist because they were one vote short, so get nominating now before it’s too late!”
Following the close of nominations, shortlisted finalists will be announced before the public vote opens ahead of a celebratory awards ceremony later this spring.
Residents can submit their nominations online before the deadline on April 12 at www.StAlbansROTY.com.
How YOU can recognise your favourite St Albans retailers…
Residents, visitors and shoppers are encouraged to nominate their favourite businesses via www.StAlbansROTY.com
Once finalists are announced, the public will then be invited to cast their votes ahead of the ceremony in May.
Key Dates for 2026
Nominations close: Sunday April 12
Public voting for finalists: April 15 – May 13
All voting closes: May 13
Awards ceremony: Monday May 18 at The Maltings Arts Theatre
2024 Winners
- Customer Service Winner: Theresa Kennedy – Up We Pop
- Entertainment & Lifestyle Winner: Empire Records
- Fashion & Lifestyle Winner: Chloe James Lifestyle
- Food & Drink Winner: Kat’s Cuisine
- Hair & Beauty Winner: Barbone
- Independents Winner: Andy Shoesmiths
- Market Stall Winner: Hannah Sessions Design
- Restaurant Winner: Toast
- Champion of the Year: Theresa Kennedy – Up We Pop
