Best farm retailers recognised at national awards 

Organised by the Farm Retail Association, which has nearly 300 members nationwide, the Farm Retail Awards celebrate the cream of the crop in this thriving industry, showcasing an incredible array of farm retailers from across the UK.  

They are the only awards judged by fellow farm retailers and celebrate the best farm shops, cafés, restaurants, farmers markets, pick-your-own operators and trade suppliers. 

This year’s awards were hosted by food and drink broadcaster and champion, Nigel Barden, and sponsored by Fieldfare. The event was held at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham as part of the FRA’s annual conference. 

The FRA was formed 46 years ago to support the industry and offers its members support, training, workshops and open days. 

Check out the winners 

The 2025 award winners are: 

• Large Farm Shop of the Year, sponsored by Fresh Retail: Darts Farm, Devon 

• Small Farm Shop of the Year, sponsored by Cress Co: Castle Farm, Kent  

• Farmers Market of the Year, sponsored by Moseley Farmers’ Market: Lenham Country Market run by M Farmers Market, Kent  

• Pick Your Own of the Year: Garson Farm, Surrey 

• Farm Café/Restaurant of the Year: The Farm Table at Darts Farm, Devon  

• Farm Shop Butchery of the Year, sponsored by Angel Refrigeration Ltd: Millets Farm Butchers, Oxfordshire 

• Rising Star of the Year, sponsored by Fieldfare: River Cottage Kitchen and Store, Devon 

• Associate Member of the Year: Cress Co, Fife, Scotland 

• Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by COOK: Jo Mounce, Strawberry Fields, Devon 

Importance of supporting local

FRA chairwoman Emma Mosey said: “So much hard work goes into running an independent business, and we are incredibly proud of the brilliance demonstrated by all of our members.  

“The Farm Retail Awards highlight the exceptional standards within our industry and showcase the dedication and innovation that makes farm retailers such a vital and thriving part of local communities.” 

Nigel Barden, host of the Farm Retail Awards, added: “It’s been a huge honour to host the Farm Retail Awards this year. The passion within the farm retail sector is truly inspiring. These awards not only highlight individual success but also shine a spotlight on the importance of supporting local and the remarkable businesses who are shaping the future of the industry.” 

The award ceremony was part of a three-day annual FRA conference which includes farm shop tours, an AGM, expert guest speakers and topical workshops.  

Read more farm business news.