The Small Awards has announced the finalists in its nationwide search for the smallest and greatest independent high street businesses. Eight standout small firms from across the UK are on the shortlist for the 2023 finals of the ‘High Street Hero’ Small Awards category, which is sponsored by TSB. Now in its seventh year, The Small Awards is run annually by Small Business Britain, which champions, inspires and accelerates small businesses in the UK.

The eight shortlisted businesses are:

• W J French and Son – A family-run shoe shop in Southampton established in 1803
• Maybugs – A collection of three independent gift shops in East Sussex
• Northern Card Gaming – A Northern Ireland-based hobby and games store that regularly runs events for its local community
• Drake the Bookshop – An independent and family-run book shop in Stockton-on-Tees in County Durham.
• TOAST – A collection of independent coffee houses in Suffolk which champion sustainability
• Wave of Nostalgia – A small bookshop in Keighley in West Yorkshire focused on inclusivity and female independence
• People First Mobility –  A Skegness-based business providing locals and holiday-goers with mobility equipment
• The East Street Deli – A husband-and-wife run independent deli in Wimbourne, Dorset

 

 

“These shortlisted businesses are all heroes,” says Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain. “They go above and beyond for their local towns, cities and communities. Independent businesses like these are vital to helping keep the nation’s high streets alive, and they play such an important role in bringing people together. We are so excited to announce the winner of the High Street Hero award at this year’s Small Awards in May.”

Also commenting is Adeel Hyder, Business Banking Director at TSB.

“It’s fantastic to see such an impressive group of businesses that have been shortlisted for the High Street Hero award. Times have been tough recently for independent businesses. It is so encouraging to see such optimism shine through despite the challenges they’ve faced. A huge congratulations to all the finalists.”

Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winners of all categories, together with the overall winner of Small Business of the Year, will be announced at an awards night in London on 18 May 2023. This year’s ceremony will take place at St Mary’s church in London. Plans are underway for a night of entertainment, inspiration and celebration for the UK’s greatest small businesses.

For further information on the Small Awards, please click here.