Hundreds of nominations already received for St Albans Retailer of the Year Awards

20 Mar 2026

Posted at 11:10 in St Albans

Almost 1,000 nominations have already been received for the 2026 St Albans Retailer of the Year Awards – all highlighting the phenomenal local businesses, teams and individuals who make the city such a vibrant place to shop, dine and visit.

Brought to you by The Maltings Shopping Centre and the St Albans Times, the awards champion the very best of the local retail community and the passion behind the shopfronts that give St Albans its unique character.

The awards shine a spotlight on a wide range of categories representing the city’s diverse retail landscape – from independents and market traders to fashion, food and drink, beauty, lifestyle and customer service excellence.

New for 2026 are two additional categories: Best Newcomer, recognising businesses that have opened within the past two years, and Best Pub/Bar, celebrating venues that help make the St Albans hospitality scene so vibrant.

Following the hugely successful revival of the awards in 2024, which culminated in a packed celebration at The Maltings Arts Theatre, the 2026 programme is shaping up to be even more exciting.

After nominations close, shortlisted finalists will be announced, and the public will have one month to vote for their winners.

The awards will culminate in a celebratory ceremony at the Arts Theatre on Monday May 18, bringing together retailers, partners and members of the local community for an evening dedicated to recognising excellence on the high street.

In addition to the public-voted categories, the prestigious Champion’s Award will be selected by an independent judging panel from the category winners, recognising an individual or business that has made an exceptional contribution to St Albans’ retail scene.

Maltings general manager Richard Marrett said: “St Albans you have been fabulous! We’ve had just under a thousand nominations in a week, but we need more. Who’s your favourite restaurant? Who’s your favourite hairdresser? Where’s the best place to get your tea and coffee in St Albans?”

St Albans Times editor Matt Adams added: “What an amazing opportunity this is to celebrate our retailers and everything that makes St Albans great. Please keep nominating to give these businesses a chance to really shine!“

We need YOU to nominate 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 12 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