Shoppers are encouraged to nominate in High Street Hero Awards

Shoppers are encouraged to nominate in High Street Hero Awards

31 July 2024

SHOPPERS across the district are being encouraged to vote for their favourite local businesses.

Voting has now opened for this year’s High Street Hero Awards that showcase the very best independent retailers and high streets across Northern Ireland.

Downpatrick councillor, Gareth Sharvin, is encouraging local people to get involved in the awards and they can nominate your favourite business until the end of the month.

The competition is viewed as the perfect opportunity to recognise the independent retailers who are going above and beyond to serve the community and ensure local high streets are still thriving places to shop and socialise.

Whether your High Street Hero is your favourite butcher, baker, or barista, they will all be showcased across 13 different categories including convenience store, deli, butcher, off licence and more, with the business who receives the most votes also named overall independent retailer.

A record 12,000 votes were cast last year to determine who was crowned Northern Ireland’s retail elite last year.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts, said independent retail is the lifeblood of communities right across Northern Ireland.

“The annual High Street Heroes NI campaign represents the biggest celebration of our thriving local retail sector. Our awards are different – they are a public vote, with no judges and it is local consumers deciding who wins,” he said.

“We’re gearing up for another huge showcase event and a massive celebration of the individual businesses who are the beating heart of our many villages, towns and cities.”

Mr Roberts added: “The awards are open to local retailers right across Northern Ireland – Portaferry to Pomeroy, Newry to Newtownabbey and Strabane to Scarva and will identify those local independent retailers who are taking a lead. 

“Whether it’s a local butcher that’s a cut above the rest or fashion retailer with exceptional style, it’s time to vote for your favourite now.”