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Public vote opens for inaugural Local Bike Shop Awards
Posted on 24 Apr 2026
Cycling enthusiasts across the UK are being invited to vote for their favourite independent bike shop as the first ever Local Bike Shop Awards enters its final stage.
An industry judging panel has shortlisted eight finalists from almost 60 entries received from independent cycle retailers nationwide. The public vote runs from today until Thursday 30th April, with the winner announced on Friday 1st May, ahead of Local Bike Shop Week which runs from 3rd to 9th May.
The awards, backed by over 20 industry partners, recognise cycle retailers who champion active travel, support cyclists and keep local shops thriving. From expert repairs and welcoming new riders to supporting local events and keeping communities moving, the shortlisted shops represent the best of independent bike retail.
Jonathan Harrison
Jonathan Harrison, ACT Director, said: "We've been overwhelmed by the quality of entries for the Local Bike Shop Awards. Our judging panel had a tough job narrowing it down to just eight finalists, each of whom demonstrates the passion, expertise and community spirit that makes independent bike shops so special. Now it's over to the cycling community to have their say and vote for the shop they believe deserves to win."
Andrew Goodacre
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of ACT parent company Bira, said: "The eight finalists showcase everything that's brilliant about independent bike retail. Each shop goes above and beyond for their customers and communities, and they all thoroughly deserve this recognition. I encourage everyone who values their local bike shop to cast their vote and help us crown the first ever Local Bike Shop Awards winner."
Everyone who votes will be entered into a prize draw to win cycling products kindly supplied by Madison, including a £200 voucher, sunglasses, mini pumps, handlebar bags and Shimano flat pedals.
The public vote is open until 11.45pm on Thursday 30th April, with Local Bike Shop Week running from 3rd to 9th May.
The Local Bike Shop Week Awards form part of Local Bike Shop Week, an industry-wide initiative managed by the Association of Cycle Traders. Local Bike Shop Week 2026 marks the expansion of what was previously a single-day celebration into a full week of activities showcasing independent cycle retailers.