Nominations Hub

The VIP Awards recognize the people, organizations, solutions, and partnerships creating meaningful impact across the retail ecosystem. This page outlines everything you need to know for your award submission. 

Here to recommend a partner, retail leader or brand for the VIP Awards? 

 I AM A SOLUTION PROVIDER I AM A RETAILER

2026 VIP RECAP

Step 1: Review the Category & Awards for where you best fit

We’ve broadened our award categories so every type of solution from  technology and consulting to emerging retail services has an official home. Browse the updated award categories (include the link to the different awards), featuring These 3 main categories: Partnership excellence, retail impact and innovation, people and industry.   Choose awards that reflect your team’s strategic impact. Organizations are welcome to submit entries across multiple categories.

Step 2: Share Your Story

Draft your story using our three core questions (up to 200 words per prompt). Provide required vector logo files and optional media links or PDFs to support your narrative.

Step 3: Submit Your Entry & Activate 5 Months of Executive Visibility

There is no fee to begin your nomination. The Awards Experience Package ($850 USD Early Bird / $950 USD Standard) is required only when submitting your completed entry. Individual leadership awards including Bridge Builder and Retail Partner Person of the Year are free to submit and include a complimentary Awards Experience Package.

Your Awards Experience Package Includes:

Executive Review:

Direct, confidential evaluation by 25+ senior retail leaders

Industry Visibility for Every Nominee:

Inclusion across VIP newsletters, social media, PR, and web channels reaching a combined audience of 145,000+ retail decision-makers. Every submitted nominee receives visibility throughout the awards cycle

Finalist & Winner Recognition:

Finalists and winners will also receive enhanced digital assets, a year-long website inclusion and winners receive a custom video interview filmed at the event

Ready-to-Share Content:

Professionally designed digital nominee badges and promotional assets for use across your website, sales materials, social channels, client communications, and prospect outreach. Enhanced/personalized finalist and winner badges
VIP Gala Access:

One ticket to the January 8 VIP Awards Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City

VIP

Evaluation Framework after Nomination close

  • Community Voting: Once voting opens, supporters may cast one (1) vote per category using a valid business email. Domain votes are capped at five (5) votes per company

  • Judging: To guarantee absolute integrity, entries are evaluated through an anonymous, double-blind review process by an expanded panel of 25+ senior retail executive judges. Every entry is scored individually by a minimum of five (5) distinct judges against standardized innovation, impact, and partnership criteria. Winners are announced live on stage during the Awards Evening in January