Nominations Open for Rutland and Stamford's Favourite Independent Shop Awards 2025 - 2026

Nominations Open for Rutland and Stamford's Favourite Independent Shop Awards 2025 - 2026

Local independent businesses are the lifeblood and character of our communities, and now is the perfect time to give them the recognition they deserve. Alicia Kearns MP for Rutland and Stamford is delighted to announce that nominations are officially open for the Rutland and Stamford's Favourite Independent Shop Awards 2025 - 2026

The annual competition, which saw over 20,400 votes cast last year, is back to champion the incredible variety and dedication of local retailers across Rutland, Stamford, South Kesteven, and the Harborough villages.

A Small Way to Play a Big Part

Speaking about the launch, MP Alicia Kearns highlighted the importance of supporting local enterprise:

"We are fortunate to have so many wonderful independent businesses locally, but they need our support, and this competition is my small way of playing my part by celebrating and raising their profiles."

This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to show their appreciation for the shops and cafés that bring "character, colour and life to our high streets."

Key Dates for the Awards

Be sure to mark these important deadlines:

• Nominations Open: Now!

• Nominations Close: 5pm on Friday, 12th December 2025.

• Shortlist & Final Voting Opens: January 2026.

• Winners Announced: February 2026.

19 Categories to Choose From!

This year, following public requests, the awards feature an expanded 19 categories, ensuring more local shops can be celebrated. The categories typically include:

• Beauty, Pampering and Wellness

• Bookshop

• Butchers

• Café

• Children and Babies

• Clothing and Accessories

• Craft and Hobby

• Farm and Produce

• Florists

• Food and Drink

• Garden

• Gifts and Stationery

• Hairdressers

• Homeware

• Music and Musical Instrument Shop

• Pharmacy

• Village Shop

• Other (for shops that don't fit the above)

• Plus the overall 'Rutland and Stamford's Favourite Independent Shop' winner!

How to Nominate Your Favourite Shop

Don't miss the chance to put forward the shops that go above and beyond!

• Nominate Here: Visit Alicia Kearns MP's website.

• https://www.aliciakearns.com/independentshopawards2025

The success of these awards relies on the community spreading the word and participating. Please do take a moment to celebrate the hard work and dedication of your favourite local independent shop!