High Street Heroes from the Borough welcomed to reception in Cloonavin

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens has welcomed the winners of Retail NI’s High Street Hero Awards 2025 to a reception in Council’s Headquarters, Cloonavin.

The awards, voted for my members of the public, saw thousands of local people having their say to recognise the businesses that make their high streets truly special.

Independent retailers across Northern Ireland were celebrated across 13 categories, with Coleraine named ‘High Street of the Year’, beating stiff competition from fellow finalists Dromore and Lisburn. The accolade is a great achievement for the town, having previously shared the title with Newtownards in 2022.

The Causeway Coast and Glens Borough proved its status as a great place to shop, with The Real Health Store, Coleraine named Best Healthcare Retailer for the second year running and MS Mobiles, Ballymoney won Best Generalist Retailer.

Ballymoney’s much-loved The Winsome Lady, scooped the Best Fashion Retailer award for the second year in a row. The store, owned by Winnie Mellet, will be entered into the Hall of Fame in 2026, receiving their certificate at next year’s launch.

Customers helped McLister’s, Ballycastle take home Bronze for Best Generalist Retailer, and The White House, Portrush picked up Bronze for Best Homeware Retailer at the awards ceremony held at the end of August.

In another great feat for the Borough, Ballymoney’s high street was entered into the Hall of Fame after winning the coveted title for two successive years in 2023 and 2024. Couples, Coleraine (Best Fashion Retailer 2022 & 2023) and W & J Walker, Ballymoney (Best Homeware Retailer 2023 & 2024) were also entered into the Hall of Fame.

Welcoming attendees to the reception, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: “I am delighted to welcome you to this reception highlighting your recent success at the High Street Heroes Awards.

“A huge congratulations goes to Coleraine for winning the coveted ‘High Street of the Year’ accolade and well done to all the businesses recognised in this year’s awards.

“Causeway Coast and Glens has a wealth of fantastic independent shops and businesses, and the work you all do alongside your counterparts in towns and villages throughout the area really is appreciated. Thank you for making our high streets wonderful places to visit!”

The High Street Hero NI Awards are a joint initiative by Retail NI, in partnership with National Lottery operator Allwyn, SSE Airtricity and Gig Grafter.

For more information on Retail NI’s High Street Hero Awards visit: Retail NI