Entries for the Drinks Retailing Awards 2026 are officially open.
Independent retailers operating between one and ten stores are invited to nominate themselves in as many categories as they wish. The deadline for entries is Friday, August 8, 2025, and it is free to enter.
Following the deadline, a three-stage judging process will begin, comprising mystery shopping visits, in-depth interviews with business owners and final assessment by a panel of industry experts. Shortlisted independents will be announced in late August 2025, with the full list of finalists published in the January 2026 edition of Drinks Retailing.
Winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on Tuesday February 3, 2026, held at the Dorchester Hotel in London. Shortlisted independents will receive complimentary hotel accommodation near the venue, a three-course meal and a selection of sponsored drinks on the night.
Independent categories are: Newcomer, Bar & Shop, Convenience Drinks Retailer, Beer & Cider Retailer, Drinks Retailer, Spirits Retailer, Wine Retailer, Champagne & Sparkling Wine Retailer, Regional Group, Specialist Online Drinks Retailer, Luxury Retailer and Excellence in Training & Education.
Reflecting on their experience winning a DRA, Katy Kennedy, owner of Spirited Bristol, said: “Being shortlisted for an award was already a huge achievement for us, so actually winning meant the world. It means so much to us as a small independent to have our hard work recognised. The awards ceremony was a great event, and we connected with so many wonderful people from the industry. It was also so helpful for us to spread the word about our new business, both in national industry press, and in our local community.”
Sadie Wilkins, co-owner of Vineyards of Sherborne, added: “We genuinely feel like the level of exposure and interest that winning the award brings is unparalleled. To be recognised by industry peers and celebrated at such an esteemed level truly means the world to small indie retailers like ourselves. People make a point of visiting us because they read about us, existing customers feel proud to say that their local is recognised on a national level. It’s pure joy full circle.”
Phil Innes, founder and managing director of Loki Wines, continued: “The DRAs are always the highlight of the calendar for me and the team; win or lose, the event is always a great event. When we have won, it is always a great boost for the teams and also vindicates all the hard work we put in.”
More details on how to enter can be found on the Drinks Retailing Awards website.
