The British Independent Retailers Association is highlighting the importance of this year’s Best Small Shops competition.
The 2020 competition, run by the Independent Retail Consortium, launched on Saturday – Independents’ Day.
It celebrates the best of the independent high street and this year’s contest is inviting entries from indies demonstrating specific innovation to combat the impact of covid-19.
Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO, said: “We are delighted to see the launch of the competition, which highlights the best of independent retail.
“This year it is more important than ever that we showcase independent retailers and recognise their role in helping the economy transition out of lockdown and the survival of the high streets.
“Indie retailers are at the heart of every good high street and we look forward to celebrating the very best examples of that.”
Bira is encouraging its members – and the wider independent retail sector – to enter the competition, which closes on September 11. A shortlist will be announced in October with winners revealed in November.
Last year’s winner was Bristol-based deli and cookery school Papadeli.
