America's Retail Champions

Celebrating small retailers who are exceptional advocates for retail



NRF’s America’s Retail Champions program celebrates small business retailers who are exceptional advocates for retail and the communities they serve. Every other year, NRF recognizes up to 50 small retail business owners who go above and beyond to make their voices heard on issues that matter.

To learn more about NRF's program, meet the 2024 Honorees.

Applications Open February 16, 2026

Nominate a retailer or submit your own application to join the 2026 class of Retail Champions. More information on eligibility and selection is coming soon.

How it works:

  • Up to 50 small retailers are selected/recognized as champions for the program.

  • From this group, 5 finalists are selected.

  • One retailer is named America’s Retail Champion at the Retail Advocates Summit in Washington, D.C.

"NRF's America's Retail Champions program is a terrific way for small retailers to collectively lift our voices to our elected officials and inform them on the issues that mean the most to their constituents — which is all of us, and the people we employ and serve!"

- Danny Reynolds, Stephenson’s of Elkhart, Elkhart, IN
 

“Being America’s Retail Champion taught me that that advocacy isn't about politics, it gives Main Street a seat at the table — and with that microphone in hand, one retailer’s voice becomes a chorus that drives change."

- Neil Abramson, ECI Stores, Leominster, MA
 

“Being named an ARC honoree and stepping into retail advocacy opened my eyes to just how critical legislation is to the survival and success of our businesses.”

- Margaret Barrow, It’s NOLA, Brooklyn, NY
 

"Being a finalist for the America's Retail Champion award was an absolute honor - but being able to represent our industry through advocacy with NRF is the true reward, as I know I'm able to affect real change that benefits the daily lives of retailers everywhere."

- Joe Kimray, B&W Hardware, Wake Forest, NC
 

Questions? Contact Ashton Wiggins.