High Street Heroes

High Street Heroes

23 July 2025

NEWRY, Mourne and Down Council is encouraging local businesses to shine in this year’s  High Street Heroes awards.

Retail NI, in partnership with National Lottery operator Allwyn, SSE Airtricity and Gig Grafter, has officially launched the campaign, with the vibrant initiative celebrating the independent retailers and local businesses that form the backbone of Northern Ireland’s communities and high streets.

The annual awards shine a spotlight on the impact independent retailers make on the local economy and community, as part of a major celebration of the very best in Northern Ireland’s independent retail sector.

The people-powered awards programme invites the public to vote for their favourite local businesses across 13 categories, ranging from food and drink to fashion and essential services. 

It is entirely driven by the public’s voice, giving communities the opportunity to recognise those businesses that go the extra mile.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts said the High Street Heroes NI campaign continues to grow from strength to strength, with a “record-breaking 15,000 votes” cast last year.

“Our high streets are more than shopping destinations. They are vital centres of employment, entrepreneurship and community life,” he said. 

“Independent retail is the lifeblood of communities right across Northern Ireland, and this campaign is the biggest celebration of our thriving local retail sector.

“This year, we are preparing to host our biggest ever showcase and a major celebration of the individual businesses that form the beating heart of our towns and cities.”

Mr Roberts said Retail NI is “delighted” to collaborate with Translink to amplify the campaign’s visibility and to recognise the vital role public transport plays in connecting people to their local high streets.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairman Philip Campbell said high streets “thrive on the diversity and spirit of independent retailers – from boutiques and barbers to bookshops and bakeries.”

He is encouraging all local businesses to take part in the High Street Heroes campaign and urge residents to vote and celebrate the rich variety shaping our town centres.

Among the top honours are ‘High Street of the Year’ and ‘Independent Retailer of the Year’ with the awards celebrating innovation, outstanding customer service, sustainability, lasting community impact and contributions to local economic growth.

 A new feature for 2025 is the ‘Winners Hall of Fame,’ which recognises businesses that have consistently topped the polls since the campaign began in 2020.

While these champions are now celebrated in a dedicated hall and step aside from this year’s competition, their legacy is cemented and space is made for new contenders to shine.

Local businesses across the district are encouraged to promote themselves and rally customer votes. Shoppers are also being urged to get involved and support their favourite high street stars.

Shortlisted retailers will be announced in early August, with an awards evening scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 21.