As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations, Associated Independent Stores (AIS) is delighted to announce our sponsorship of the Best Independent Department Store Award at the prestigious Drapers Awards.
For five decades, AIS has been dedicated to empowering independent department stores across the UK and Ireland. Partnering with Drapers to sponsor the Best Independent Department Store category extends our ongoing commitment to championing retail by highlighting businesses that demonstrate outstanding performance, innovative visual merchandising, and strong customer engagement.
Supporting Our Nominated Members
We’re proud that five of the six finalists are AIS Members. A fantastic reflection of the strength of AIS and independent retail, up for this years award:
Elys (Morleys)
Jarrolds & Sons
McElhinneys
R Barbour & Son
Walker & Ling
We wish the very best of luck to all finalists and look forward to celebrating alongside our Members at the Old Billingsgate, London on 11 November 2026.
About AIS
AIS (Associated Independent Stores) is the leading buying group for home, fashion, and leisure in the UK and Ireland. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, AIS remains dedicated to supporting independent retailers through collective buying power, and industry-leading services and insight.
