HIGHCROSS CELEBRATES RETAIL EXCELLENCE AS ANNUAL AWARDS RETURN

Highcross Leicester has recognised the standout performers within its retail and dining community at its annual retailer awards.

Returning after a five year hiatus, the awards—presented by BBC Radio Leicester’s Ady Dayman—honour 140 stores, kiosks, leisure venues and restaurants at the centre, in addition to individuals that make up the team, both at Highcross and its retailers.

This year’s awards, hosted at Showcase Cinema and welcoming over 150 guests, were evaluated across 15 different categories, including Best Health and Beauty Retailer, Best Café/Takeaway and Best on the Mall Retailer.

Retailer of the Year

Among the most prestigious awards of the night, were ‘Retailer of the Year’, which went to Hotel Chocolat, for its team’s personable and knowledgeable customer service as well as its experience-led space.

Representing the independent, local brands, Spirit Crystals was crowned ‘Newcomer of the Year’, thanks to its unique environment and product selection where, inside its ‘magical cave’, shoppers can buy healing crystals, smash geodes and make potions.

Opened in April by former DMU student-turned-entrepreneur, Jelle Hoefnagel, the space features an immersive, cavern-inspired store that transports shoppers from the mall into a tranquil, naturalistic retreat. Since its opening, the shop has proven to be an early fan-favourite, with regular queues out the doors.

Best Restaurant of the Year

East Midlands-born, Tamatanga, scooped Highcross’ top dining spot, as ‘Best Restaurant of the Year’; loved for its Indian-style cuisine and cocktails. Despite opening in the centre almost seven years ago, the restaurant remains one of its most popular destinations.

Other notable mentions include:

MenKind, receiving the ‘Best Toys, Gifts and Cards Retailer’ award
‘Best on Mall Retailer’ went to kiosk, Mobilise, for its good quality repairs service
‘Best Tech Retailer’ was presented to Apple — the only one of its kind in the East Midlands
Preparing to celebrate its first anniversary at Highcross, beauty giant, Space NK, took home ‘Best Health and Beauty Retailer’
John Lewis & Partners took home ‘Best Large Store’
Goldsmiths received the ‘Best Jewellery Retailer’ award
Next won for its commitment to community as a result of its support to local charity, LOROS
Greggs secured the ‘Best Café/Takeaway’ category, thanks to its value for money, customer service and famous pastries
‘Best Footwear Retailer’ went to JD Sports
‘Best Fashion Retailer’ went to Luke1977, on the lower mall, for its memorable staff and impressive online presence.

As well as honouring food and retail offering, the awards also shone a light on the centre’s standout individuals, including Highcross' Technical Services Coordinator, Mark Tunaley, who took home the ‘Employee of the Year’ award, while the ‘Store Manager of the Year’ award went to Natalie Harty from Urban Outfitters.

Commenting on the return of the awards night, which included an exclusive performance by local soul jazz band, Cashmere FM, Centre Director at Highcross, Michelle Menezes, said:

“I joined Highcross in January 2025 with a clear ambition: to drive positive change and meaningful impact—for our visitors, occupiers, our own team and for the wider city that we’re proud to live and work in.

“Having started my own career in retail, I understand first-hand the dedication, resilience and passion that retail demands. That’s why it fills me with such pride to celebrate the talent, hard work and commitment of everyone who calls Highcross ‘home’ at this year’s Retailer Awards. Thanks again to everyone involved for bringing to life such a fantastic evening.”