27 Jun 2026
The Maltings Shopping Centre in St Albans has been shortlisted for two prestigious national awards in recognition of its commitment to supporting retailers and bringing communities together through free events such as Summer Sounds.
The centre has been named a finalist in both the Retail Liaison Award and Community Initiative of the Year (South) categories in the prestigious SCEPTRE Awards, celebrating the work undertaken to support businesses and the wider community.
The SCEPTRE Awards are widely regarded as the UK’s leading awards for the shopping centre industry, recognising excellence in retail management, marketing and community engagement.
The Community Initiative nomination recognises Summer Sounds – the free annual festival which returns this coming Friday with live music, family entertainment, special appearances, food, drink and late-night shopping.
Summer Sounds has become a much-loved free community event, bringing local people into The Maltings to enjoy live entertainment while supporting independent businesses, national retailers, cafés and restaurants.
Maltings centre manager Richard Marrett said: “To be shortlisted for two national SCEPTRE Awards is something we’re incredibly proud of. These awards recognise the hard work our team and our businesses put into creating a destination that people genuinely enjoy visiting.
“Summer Sounds has always been about giving something back to St Albans. It’s completely free to attend because we believe everyone should be able to enjoy a fantastic evening of live entertainment while discovering everything our centre has to offer.
“The event is designed to support the businesses that make The Maltings such an important part of the city centre. Throughout the evening, visitors enjoy discovering shops, cafés and restaurants they may never have tried before, helping generate valuable trade for our businesses.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from our retailers, performers, local organisations and everyone who helps make Summer Sounds such a success. Being recognised nationally reflects the community spirit that makes this event so special.
“We’re committed to delivering a safe, well-managed event that everyone can enjoy, and we look forward to welcoming the community back to The Maltings next week.”
This year’s Summer Sounds line-up includes performances from Brilliant Theatre Academy, Grace George, Pat and the Butchers, Flabba and Mr H, with special appearances from drag stars Vicki Vivacious and Fiona Flange.
Visitors can also enjoy food and drink from Maltings favourites Chicken George, Japes and Waffle Wands, alongside street food and drink from Craft & Cleaver, Lime Face, Chai, Fade to Black, The Banquet Inn and a prosecco bar hosted by local charity Youth Talk.
Summer Sounds takes place on Friday July 3 from 6pm to 10pm, with free entry and free parking from 6pm. For more information, follow @TheMaltings_StAlbans on social media.
