ROTY Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible to apply or be nominated for the Retailer of the Year awards?

Eligible applicants and nominees must be located in the Hampton Roads region. Nominees must be retailers who own a physical storefront, apart from nominations for the Retail Empowerment Award, that can be a non-retailer.

2. What types of businesses are classified as retail?

Retail businesses that sell or plan to sell in a brick-and-mortar format, including product-based (apparel, home goods, etc.), food & beverage (cafés, bakeries, breweries, grocers, etc.), or experience-focused (escape rooms, axe throwing, etc.).

3. What is the retail empowerment award?

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.

3. Do I need a physical storefront to qualify?
Yes these awards are for physical retail stores only. 

4. Can past winners apply or be nominated?
Yes, winners from previous years may apply or be nominated.

5. Are there costs involved to be considered for an award?
No fee is required. 

6. Do I have to be a member of Retail Alliance?
Yes, the nominees or applications must be current members of Retail Alliance. You can find the list of members here.

6. Will my business or personal image be used in promotions?
Yes, applicants must agree to participate in media promotions and allow their images and business branding to be used.

9. What documents are required to be considered for an award?
Applicants must submit a full application. Each award has different requirements and can be referred to on the application.

10. What businesses are NOT eligible?
Ineligible applicants include home-based or online-only retailers.

This is a retail-focused storefront awards program. The only exception is for retail allies that are described above.

11. When are the awards being presented?

The Retailer of the Year awards are being presented at our Annual Meeting on March 4, 2026. You can register to attend here.

12. Do I have to be present to accept the award?

No, but it is preferred in order for us to celebrate your achievement. and record the recipients in photographs and video.

13. What if I don't have all the information for the nominee?

To nominate someone, you can use this easy nomination form. You only need to know the business name and a contact person within that organization.

14. If I have won in the past, can I apply again?

The “Overall Retailer of the Year” may only be designated as the “Overall Winner” once.  However, retailers are eligible to apply for all other awards for an unlimited number of years.

15. What are the awards that are being presented? (click on the + next to each award to read each description)

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.
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.
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 Mattes' Rising Star Award inspires and applauds this rising star, setting a benchmark for excellence and promising a bright future in the retail landscape.
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.
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.
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. 
Given to an exceptional individual who has displayed exemplary leadership, dedication, and innovation in the field of store management.
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.