Creative Retail Awards announced at glitzy ceremony

The winners of the 2025 Creative Retail Awards were announced in a ceremony at London’s Emerald Theatre on September 25^th.

The awards, which had its shortlist announced in July, brought together representatives from across the UK retail and display sectors for an event that aimed to spotlight the groundbreaking ideas and collaborative spirit of the retail world.

The theming of the night was focused on glitz and glamour, with returning host and cabaret artist, Aidan Sadler, who regaled the crowd with jokes and entertainment alongside acrobatic acts and burlesque performers.

This year’s categories aimed to reflect the evolving nature of the sector, with focuses including digital innovation, sustainability, lighting, customer experience, and visual merchandising.

Over 40 awards were given out throughout the evening, with each category awarded both a ‘highly commended’ prize and an overall winner, providing room to celebrate a range of outstanding work.

The Shop Drop Daily Concept of the Year Award, decided by public vote, was won by Fenty’s ‘Mane Street’ pop-up, an immersive, pastel-hued experience for Rihanna’s beauty brand at Selfridges London.

Design Agency of the Year went to StudioXAG, which was chosen by the judges for its collaborative approach and creative leadership. The judges described the company as a practice which “consistently pushes retail environments beyond functional display into immersive storytelling” and with “partners which help define brand identity through space and experience.”

A key addition for 2025 was the introduction of the Trailblazer Award. This new category was created to recognise brands, individuals, or initiatives that drive progress by setting trends, challenging convention, and continually delivering fresh, forward-thinking work.

The first winner of the Trailblazer Award was fashion brand, Coach. The UK team joined the celebrations on the night with senior vice president of Global Visual Experience & Store Design, Giovanni Zaccariello, appearing on the venue’s digital screens with a specially recorded message from New York.

Portugal Jewels won Store Design of the Year, with the judges highlighting that the company demonstrated how “considered design can create emotional and commercial impact.” Dawkes Music secured the Retail Experience Award, recognised for “elevating how customers interact with their space.”

Others taking home awards included Porsche Cars GB, Fortnum and Mason, IKEA, B&Q, Flannels, Sports Direct, Charlotte Tilbury, Woolworths South Africa, Philip Jones Opticians, Cadbury World, National Trust, Future Stores London, Harrods, Loewe, and On Running.

After the awards section wrapped, a live band performed a set of club classics before a DJ took over to carry the celebration through until the early hours.

Speaking of the 2025 event, co-organiser, Antony Behiels said: "The Creative Retail Awards 2025 wasn't just about the trophies, it was a powerful reflection of the innovation, passion, and progress driving the retail industry forward. Congratulations to every winner, highly commended, and shortlistee for inspiring us all."

Plans for the 2026 Creative Retail Awards are reportedly already in motion, building on the achievements of the 2025 event. Entries open on October 31^st, with the organisers promising that the event will be “the most expansive and inspiring year yet.”