Farm shops from across the region are among those vying for prestigious national recognition as finalists in the Farm Retail Awards 2026.
Thriving farm shops, farm cafés, restaurants, butcheries, farmers markets and pick-your-own businesses based across the home nations have been shortlisted as the best in their industry by the Farm Retail Association (FRA).
Eight categories include a Rising Star Award to champion business development and industry newcomers. The other categories include: Farm Shop Butchery of the Year; Large Farm Shop (turnover over £1.5m) and Small Farm Shop (turnover under £1.5m).
Shortlist
Finalists include the Suffolk Food Hall – a large farm shop and food hub near Ipswich offering local produce, artisan butchery, scratch bakery, delicatessen and cafe overlooking the River Orwell, near Ipswich.
The Goat Shed in Norfolk is shortlisted for the Rising Star category. A family-run business run by Sam Steggles, it completed a significant expansion and successful rebrand in June 2024.
Lathcoats Farm in Essex is shortlisted in the PYO category. A fourth-generation family fruit farm, it grows 50 apple varieties and summer fruits, vegetables and flowers for PYO. They are sold through the farm shop and showcased in The Bee Shed Coffee House.
Farm Retail Association chair Emma Mosey said: “Each of our finalists represents the very best of British farm retail, from outstanding farm shops and skilled butchers to welcoming cafés and the dedicated businesses that support them.”
Food campaign
The association’s More Than Food campaign highlights the role of farmers markets, farm shops and pick-your-own enterprises in providing outlets for exceptional produce and hubs for local communities.
“Together, they showcase the innovation, passion and community connection that define our sector. Farm retail matters – it’s about people, provenance and pride in doing things the right way.”
Finalists will undergo a three-stage judging process including visits from fellow farm retailers. Winners will be announced glittering awards ceremony on 11 March at the Cedar Court Hotel in Harrogate.