The 2025 Creative Retail Awards lit up London’s Emerald Theatre on September 25, uniting the retail world’s most influential figures in a vibrant tribute to creativity, innovation, and transformative impact. Gathering global retailers, brands, designers, and top suppliers, the event spotlighted the visionaries redefining the future of retail through groundbreaking ideas and collaborative spirit.
The awards have become a defining fixture in the retail calendar. They represent a genuine celebration of progress, ideas and collaboration. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was electric; Showgirls greeted attendees during the drinks reception, setting the tone for what would become a truly unforgettable evening. The Creative Retail Awards have long promised to do things differently and once again delivered a night that stood out in every way. “Gone are the days of traditional, formal award dinners, the Creative Retail Awards delivered a vibrant, spectacular event,” said Design4Retail.
Returning host Aidan Sadler, back by popular demand, delivered a performance full of energy and connection, rousing the crowd with his signature style. Internationally recognised acrobatic acts and burlesque performers wowed the crowd with a spectacle which perfectly matched the energy and creativity of the evening.
A cornerstone of the event is its independent, in-person judging process. Taking place over a full day in London, the judging brought together experienced voices from across the retail community. Each entry was assessed in detail, with open debate and careful consideration at the heart of every decision, offering transparency and merit to every award.
This year’s categories reflected the evolving nature of the sector, from digital innovation and sustainability to lighting, customer experience and visual merchandising. Over 40 awards were given out throughout the evening, the pinnacle of the hundreds of entries received. Just to be included in the shortlist was an achievement, highlighting the calibre and competitiveness of this year’s submissions. Each category awarded both a “Highly Commended” 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, offered a moment of recognition from the wider retail audience. This year’s winner, Fenty’s “Mane Street” pop-up at Selfridges London, captured the imagination of the public, showcasing how brand presence and physical experience can connect in powerful ways. The importance of this award continues to grow, highlighting retail moments that resonate beyond industry walls.
Design Agency of the Year went to StudioXAG, who were celebrated for their collaborative approach and creative leadership. The judges described them as a practice who “consistently push retail environments beyond functional display into immersive storytelling” and “partners who help define brand identity through space and experience.” Their work this year stood out not just for its execution, but for the thinking behind it.
Another key addition in 2025 was the introduction of the Trailblazer Award. This new category was created to recognise those who go beyond the expected, brands, individuals or initiatives that drive progress by setting trends, challenging convention and continually delivering fresh, forward-thinking work. It rewards innovation at its boldest, spotlighting those unafraid to take creative risks and lead the way for others. The first recipient was Coach, whose UK team joined the celebrations on the night. In a standout moment, Giovanni Zaccariello, SVP Global Visual Experience & Store Design, appeared on the venue’s digital screens with a specially recorded message from New York to share in the occasion. A powerful brand presence, a truly global gesture and a great moment in the evening’s programme.
Winners came from all corners of the industry, proving that innovation is not the preserve of global giants. Dawkes Music secured the Retail Experience Award, recognised for elevating how customers interact with their space. Portugal Jewels won Store Design of the Year, showing how considered design can create emotional and commercial impact. Others taking home awards included Porsche Cars GB, Fortnum and Mason, Coach, IKEA, B&Q, Flannels, Sports Direct, Charlotte Tilbury, Woolworths South Africa, Philip Jones Opticians, Cadbury World, National Trust, Future Stores London, Harrods, Loewe, On Running, Selfridges and many more from around the globe. “A great night was had by all at this year’s Creative Retail Awards. Delighted to be nominated and win some of the categories, whilst spending the evening with others from this fun-loving industry,” shared Fortnum & Mason.
This broad recognition stands as a testament to the range and depth of creativity within today’s retail environment. The full list of Winners, Highly Commended and Shortlisted entries can be found at www.creativeretailawards.com
After the awards section wrapped, the revelry ignited further. A live band brought the party to life with a set of club classics before a DJ took over to carry the celebration through until the early hours. “Just to be entertained like that! Perhaps this sort of thing goes on all the time in London but for a company based in the sticks, it was a thoroughly enjoyable eye-opening feast of flamboyancy!” exclaimed TonyG.
The continued success of the Creative Retail Awards is only made possible through the invaluable support of its partners. This year saw the return of Kesslers London as Headline Partner, joined by a number of key sponsors and supporters across the industry who contributed to the scale and success of the evening.
“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,” commented co- organiser Antony Behiels. “Congratulations to every Winner, Highly Commended and Shortlistee for inspiring us all.”
Plans for the 2026 Creative Retail Awards are already in motion, building on the outstanding achievements of this year’s event. Entries open on 31 October, with anticipation running high for what promises to be the most expansive and inspiring year yet. With even more ambition, fresh ideas and growing industry momentum, the 2026 awards will continue to raise the bar for recognition and celebration across the global retail landscape.
For more information, visit www.creativeretailawards.com.
