Bira and INDX Shows are backing this year’s Boutique Star Awards after signing up as category sponsors. The British Independent Retail Association (Bira) returns as sponsor following a successful partnership for the past two years. For 2026, it will support the Resilient Retailer of the Year category, which recognises businesses that have overcome adversity over the past 12 months.
Meanwhile, trade show group INDX Shows will also sponsor two categories: New Independent of the Year – designed to celebrate fresh talent on the high street – as well as Emerging Brand of the Year, which offers a platform for new boutique suppliers.
The two companies join Harrogate Fashion Week, which is sponsoring the Fashion Agency of the Year, and womenswear supplier City Goddess – backer of the Independent Department Store of the Year and Outstanding Business awards.
All sponsors have supported the awards previously, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to small businesses and independent retailers.
Organised by Boutique magazine, the awards celebrate excellence across independent fashion and lifestyle retail, recognising innovation, success and community spirit. Now in its sixth year, the competition has become a highlight of the industry calendar, attracting entries from boutiques, brands and suppliers from across the UK.
“We’re so pleased to have Bira and INDX Shows back as category sponsors for 2026,” says Julie Neill, managing director at Boutique magazine. “It’s been an incredibly tough year for the industry, with many indie retailers closing their doors, so being able to recognise and celebrate those that are thriving is a real privilege. We wouldn’t be able to grow the awards and give more brilliant businesses and individuals the recognition they deserve without the support of our sponsors.”
Entries are now open to UK-based fashion and lifestyle independents with at least one bricks-and-mortar store, as well as to agents, brands and suppliers. Submissions close on Monday 31 August, with the winners announced at a celebratory event on Tuesday 10 November at London’s Victory Services Club.
For details on sponsorship opportunities, contact E: julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk. Entry forms and criteria are available here.