A countryside enterprise has been named the leading independent trader in the South East area.
The Seasons Wholefoods in Forest Row secured the regional prize at the 2026 Farm Shop and Deli Retailer Awards, which celebrate Britain’s top specialist food businesses across ten categories and nine regions.
The results were announced on April 13 during an occasion at the NEC Birmingham, held alongside the yearly Farm Shop and Deli Show.
Nigel Barden, who chairs the judging panel and works as a broadcaster and food journalist, noted that despite a year when many shop owners have taken a cautious approach, the Farm Shop and Deli Awards have continued to flourish. He mentioned that the panel has been greatly heartened by the outstanding quality of submissions, and they genuinely value every retailer who carved out time from their demanding schedules to participate. The distinguished panel of judges continues to be a key strength of these awards, and bringing in fresh judges introduced additional expertise to the evaluation process.
The Seasons Wholefoods was honoured as Independent Local Shop/Village Store of the Year while also clinching the South East Regional title.
The overall Retailer of the Year prize was awarded to Aubrey Allen based in Leamington Spa, which additionally picked up Butcher of the Year and Midlands Regional Winner titles, with commendations for its quality standards and treatment of staff.
The assessment process involved online reviews, in-store evaluations, and mystery visits carried out throughout January and February to give judges genuine insights into each contender.
Further accolades were given, including Highly Commended awards and Newcomer of the Year.
The awards are run in partnership with The Grocer and backed by Fieldfare, a Kent-based supplier of premium loose frozen goods to independent retailers.
More details about the winners and award procedures can be found at farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/awards.
Other regional champions included Goat Shed in Norwich, Dylan’s Baked Goods and General Store in Llangefni, and The Glenelg Shop in Glenelg.
Entries for the 2027 awards are now open and will close on July 27, 2026.
The awards receive sponsorship from Fieldfare, Go Jute, Mudwalls Food Group, and The EPOS Bureau, with additional support from Cotswold Fayre, Cress Co and other partners.