The winners of the 2026 Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards were revealed on the 13th April, and Welbeck Farm Shop from Worksop, East Midlands, was awarded Highly Commended in the Farm Shop Large category.
The largest category for 2026, there were nine category finalists including Denstone Farm Shop & Cafe from Uttoxeter, Forage Farm Shop from Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, Goat Shed from Honingham, Norwich, Kenyon Hall Farm from Warrington, Cheshire, Low Sizergh Barn near Kendal, Cumbria, Oakchurch Farm Shop from Staunton-on-Wye, Herefordshire, Robinsons Ltd from Isle of Man, The Garlic Farm from Sandown, Isle of Wight, and Welbeck Farm Shop from Worksop, East Midlands.
With so many finalists in the category, judges awarded Highly Commended to three finalists Denstone Hall Farm Shop, Oakchurch Farm Shop and Welbeck Farm Shop, with Ludlow Farm Shop, from Ludlow, Shropshire winning the category.
This year’s event, delivered in partnership with The Grocer and championed by Fieldfare -brought together the finest examples of independent retail across the UK and Northern Ireland. Ten category winners and nine regional champions were honoured, alongside special achievements including Highly Commended distinctions and the sought-after Newcomer of the Year award. Enthusiastic crowds of finalists, exhibitors, and attendees cheered on as Aubrey Allen emerged at the forefront of exceptional competition.
The awards follow an extensive evaluation process. Entries underwent detailed online assessment by industry experts, followed by a November in-person judging session to determine the shortlist. Secret visits conducted in January and February provided judges with an authentic insight into the business, ultimately shaping the list of this year’s winners.
Since its opening in 2006, Welbeck Farm Shop has developed a reputation as one of the region's premier farm shops. The majority of its products are sourced from or produced on the Welbeck Estate, including estate meats, game, and raw milk—dispensed via an in-store vending machine and used in the renowned Stichelton blue cheese. Additional products under the Made at Welbeck range feature ale from Welbeck Abbey Brewery and bread from Welbeck Bakehouse.
