Retail NI, in partnership with National Lottery operator Allwyn, SSE Airtricity and Gig Grafter, has officially launched the High Street Heroes NI 2025 campaign. <\/p>\n
This vibrant initiative celebrates the independent retailers and local businesses that form the backbone of Northern Ireland’s communities and high streets.<\/p>\n
Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI, said: \u201cThe 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cIndependent 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cRetail NI is delighted to collaborate with Translink to amplify the campaign\u2019s visibility and to recognise the vital role public transport plays in connecting people to their local high streets.\u201d<\/p>\n
The annual Retail NI High Street Heroes 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\u2019s independent retail sector.<\/p>\n
This 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\u2019s voice, giving communities the opportunity to recognise those businesses that go the extra mile.<\/p>\n
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton, said: \u201cOur high streets are the lifeblood of our communities, and the independent retailers, local businesses, and service providers who operate there are true local heroes. The Retail NI High Street Hero Awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their hard work, creativity, and the vital role they play in making our town centre a vibrant, welcoming place for everyone.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese awards shine a spotlight on those who go the extra mile for their customers and communities, and I am proud to give them my full support. I encourage everyone to get involved, cast their vote, and show appreciation for the people who help our local economy and community spirit thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
Voting opened on Friday, July 4 (Independence Day) which is a fitting date to mark the independence and resilience of Northern Ireland\u2019s independent retailers. Among the top honours are \u201cHigh Street of the Year\u201d and \u201cIndependent Retailer of the Year.\u201d These awards celebrate innovation, outstanding customer service, sustainability, lasting community impact and contributions to local economic growth.<\/p>\n
A new feature for 2025 is the \u201cWinners Hall of Fame,\u201d 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\u2019s competition, their legacy is cemented and space is made for new contenders to shine.<\/p>\n
Local businesses across Mid Ulster District Council are encouraged to promote themselves and rally customer votes. Shoppers are also being urged to get involved and support their favourite high street stars.<\/p>\n
Retail NI, which represents the independent retail and wholesale sector in Northern Ireland, launched the High Street Heroes NI campaign to recognise and reward local retailers for their impact on local communities. For every \u00a31 spent at an independent retailer, 70p stays in the local economy. That is a direct investment in farmers, producers, jobs and the vibrancy of local neighbourhoods. It supports the wider community and strengthens the local economy.<\/p>\n
In a world dominated by big chains and online giants, High Street Heroes NI offers a timely reminder of the value, character and resilience of our local businesses. If ever there was a time to celebrate your local heroes, this is it. Vote, share and spread the word.<\/p>\n