Heart of the High Street Awards
The Aberdeenshire Heart of the High Street Awards celebrate the people and businesses who make our town centres special.
From warm welcomes to going the extra mile, these brand-new town centre awards recognise outstanding customer service, community spirit, and the everyday kindness that keeps our high streets thriving. By shining a spotlight on local champions, we’re encouraging a culture of hospitality, pride, and connection across Aberdeenshire.
Award categories
The categories for town centre businesses are:
- Making Every Customer Count - Retail Award
- The Extra Mile - Professional Services Award
- The Warm Welcome - Hospitality Award
- The Experience Makers - Leisure and Tourism Award
- Supporting Health and Happiness - Wellbeing Award
- Loves Local Ambassador
- Outstanding Individual
- New Business of the Year
Through public nominations, community voting, and the celebration event, we honour those who truly make a difference — while supporting businesses to grow, improve skills, and champion the Aberdeenshire Loves Local message.
Because it’s the people at the heart of our high streets who make them great places to visit, shop and do business.
Get involved
Nominate the business you think delivers great customer service now on our EngageHQ page.
Nominations received will be reviewed by a judging panel with shortlisted businesses or individuals being put forward to a public vote to select the winner in each category.
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Key 2026 dates
- Monday 11th May - nominations open
- Sunday 7th June - nominations close
- Monday 20th July - voting for shortlisted entries open
- Sunday 30th August - voting closes
- Tuesday 22nd September - winners announced at the award ceremony
- Wednesday 23rd September - winners shared via press and social media
Sponsorship opportunities
We are also seeking sponsors for the individual award categories. For £500, your business becomes a visible champion for thriving town centres, exceptional customer service, and strong local communities. If you think these Awards are an event which support your business objectives and is one you would like to sponsor, please get in touch and we will send you a sponsorship pack.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please get in touch.