In honour of celebrating our 50th Anniversary, we're thrilled to announce that AIS is sponsoring three prestigious industry awards this year, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the independent retail community.
Our 2026 Sponsorships
Excellence in Housewares Awards, 30 September 2026
Underlines Star Awards, 5 November 2026
Drapers Independent Department Store of the Year, 11 November 2026
Investing in Industry Recognition
Sponsorship of these awards is to ensure that independent retailers have the visibility needed in the retail industry. Our Members provide the character that defines many local communities but they often don't receive the recognition they deserve.
By supporting these industry awards, AIS is actively working to bridge that gap and to help continue support, for another 50 years, a diverse and independent retail landscape, where independent businesses can thrive.
Our Expertise on the Judging Panel
We are proud to announce that AIS will be present on the judging panels of these awards, ensuring our input remains central to determining best practice within the retail sector.
Celebrating 50 years of AIS means championing the future of independent retail. Sponsoring these awards is our way of ensuring our membership gets the industry recognition and big-stage visibility they truly deserve.
- Georgina Kelly, Director of Marketing and Development
To learn more about the specific categories we are supporting, please visit the official websites for the Excellence in Housewares Awards, the Underlines Star Awards, and the Drapers Independent Department Store of the Year.
