Retailers delivering standout digital initiatives, high-performing ecommerce programmes and distinctive fashion propositions have been named in the latest RG Retail Excellence Awards 2026 shortlists…
The finalists have been revealed for Fashion Retailer of the Year, Digital Team of the Year and Digital Initiative of the Year.
The three categories recognise retailers combining strong customer propositions with digital innovation, effective teamwork and new technology designed to improve the shopping experience.
The winners will be announced at the RG Retail Excellence Awards on 14 October 2026 at The Underglobe, beneath Shakespeare’s Globe on London’s Southbank.
Fashion Retailer of the Year shortlist
Five retailers have been shortlisted for Fashion Retailer of the Year, representing a mix of digital-first businesses, established brands and independent retail platforms.
The finalists are:
- Goddiva
- ICANIWILL (ICIW)
- Wolf & Badger
- EVEREVE with LoyaltyLion
- Seasalt Cornwall
The shortlist reflects the breadth of modern fashion retail, from activewear and occasionwear to lifestyle clothing and platforms supporting independent designers.
As fashion retailers continue to respond to changing customer expectations, businesses are increasingly combining product, brand identity, digital engagement and customer loyalty to stand out in a highly competitive market.
This year’s finalists demonstrate the different approaches retailers are taking to build communities, strengthen customer relationships and create memorable shopping experiences across physical and digital channels.
Digital Team of the Year shortlist
Six teams are in the running for Digital Team of the Year, which celebrates the people behind successful online platforms, apps, customer programmes and ecommerce experiences.
The finalists are:
- Argos
- Harding Retail
- Wickes
- Lush Club app
- LeMieux Insiders
- Taste Odyssey
The shortlisted teams span some of retail’s largest businesses alongside specialist and emerging propositions.
Together, they highlight the growing importance of collaboration across ecommerce, technology, marketing, data and customer experience.
Digital success increasingly depends on teams being able to respond quickly to customer needs, test new ideas and deliver joined-up experiences across websites, apps, stores and service channels.
The category recognises the teams turning those ambitions into practical results and helping their businesses compete in an increasingly connected retail landscape.
Digital Initiative of the Year shortlist
Eight projects have been shortlisted for Digital Initiative of the Year, showcasing the range of technologies and ideas being introduced across retail.
The finalists are:
- Ready on Arrival (ROA) — McDonald’s UK & Ireland
- Video Diagnostics initiative — Currys
- Paul Smith partnership with Ingrid — Paul Smith
- Digital transformation with PMC — Ann Summers
- MPOS — AllSaints
- Footasylum with Zipline — Footasylum
- FoundIt! — B&Q
- The Very Group initiative — The Very Group
The shortlist includes projects focused on customer convenience, remote support, delivery, store technology, internal communication and broader digital transformation.
Currys’ Video Diagnostics initiative demonstrates how digital tools can support customers beyond the initial purchase, while B&Q’s FoundIt! project reflects the growing use of technology to help shoppers navigate stores and locate products.
Other finalists highlight the role of mobile technology, improved delivery experiences and connected retail operations.
The presence of projects from McDonald’s UK & Ireland, Paul Smith, Ann Summers, AllSaints, Footasylum and The Very Group further demonstrates how digital innovation is being applied across a wide variety of retail categories and customer journeys.
Rather than treating ecommerce and stores as separate channels, the shortlisted initiatives show how retailers are using digital tools to create faster, simpler and more consistent experiences.
Recognising retail’s digital leaders
The latest shortlists underline the central role digital capabilities now play across the retail industry.
Technology is no longer limited to the online checkout. It influences how retailers communicate with their teams, manage stores, deliver orders, solve customer problems and build long-term loyalty.
The finalists in the Fashion Retailer of the Year, Digital Team of the Year and Digital Initiative of the Year categories represent businesses and teams working to turn that technology into meaningful customer and commercial outcomes.
They will join retailers, brands, suppliers and industry leaders at the new and improved RG Retail Excellence Awards 2026.
The evening will include a drinks reception, a three-course sit-down dinner, live entertainment and opportunities to network with some of the industry’s most influential figures.
The winners will be revealed at The Underglobe on 14 October 2026.
Find out more about the RG Retail Excellence Awards and secure your place at the ceremony here.
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