2025 Retailer of the Year Awards

Welcome to 2025 Retailer of the Year Awards (ROTY)! ROTY provides an opportunity for Retail Alliance to recognize the accomplishments of the incredible retailers in Hampton Roads. We understand the commitment and perseverance required for retailers and businesses to grow and succeed in Hampton Roads.

We have hundreds of retailers, restaurants, and services who deserve to be recognized and this is where we need your help. 

If you're a retailer, we encourage you to apply. It is time to showcase your accomplishments, inspire others with your success stories, and be recognized as a trailblazer in the dynamic world of retail. 

If you're not a retailer, but know one that you think is deserving of one of the following awards, please nominate them. Only current Retail Alliance members are eligible for nomination. Please refer to our Member Directory for a list of current members. If you have further questions, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Award Categories:

Retailer of the Year 

Sets a superior standard for excellence in the retail industry, recognizing and honoring the extraordinary efforts of a deserving retailer. By celebrating innovation, being customer-centric, and displaying outstanding performance, this award inspires others to continually push boundaries, raise the bar, and deliver exceptional experiences to customers through all channels. Nominate or apply here.

Growth & Innovation Award

Honors a retailer that has demonstrated measurable business growth while embracing innovative strategies to enhance their operations. Nominees should showcase creative approaches to marketing, merchandising, or customer engagement, and have implemented new products, services, or technologies that positively impact their business sustainability and competitiveness.

Ray’s Rising Star Award

Recognizes and celebrates the exceptional achievements of emerging retailers in the industry (=/< 3 years in business). This prestigious award aims to honor and showcase new retailers who have demonstrated remarkable innovation, growth, and a fresh approach to serving their customers. By highlighting their exceptional contributions, Ray's Award inspires and applauds this rising star, setting a benchmark for excellence and promising a bright future in the retail landscape.

Community Impact Award

Given to the retailer who has gone above and beyond to help their community. For example, regularly supported local charities and causes, hosted outstanding community events, and demonstrated exceptional impact on community life.

Retail Ally Award

Given to an outstanding business that goes above and beyond in their efforts to support and uplift the retail industry. This accolade is bestowed upon those who demonstrate unwavering commitment and make a significant impact in empowering retailers to thrive in an ever-changing market.Best Window/Interior Seasonal Display - Given to a retailer who has an eye for design and has created an inviting display in the window and within the store. 

Best Window/Interior Seasonal Display

Given to a retailer who has an eye for design and has demonstrated creativity and originality in the creation of a display in the window and within the store, effectively using space, lighting, and arrangement to create an unforgettable impact. 

Employee Excellence Award

Given to an exceptional individual who has displayed exemplary leadership, dedication, and innovation in the field of store management.

Customer Experience Award

Given to the business who provides the best customer experience throughout all channels (in-store, online, etc.) Showcased groundbreaking and unique ideas that set the store apart as a leader in delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction.

This award is given to an outstanding business that goes above and beyond in their efforts to support and uplift the retail industry. This accolade is bestowed upon those who demonstrate unwavering commitment and make a significant impact in empowering retailers to thrive in an ever-changing market. APPLY HERE.