Cork-based EZ Living Interiors won National Retailer of the Year and was commended by the judges as a friendly, well‑run space where staff go the extra mile and customer experience is a top priority.
 
Irish Crafts in Doolin won the Independent Store of the Year Award, in association with VISA. The judges were impressed at the team’s authentic passion for Irish craft and how it enriched the visitor experience
 
Ecommerce continues to serve as an avenue for every retailer to attract new customers and showcase their offerings to the world. Callaghans Electrical, Co. Donegal was named as Small Online Retailer of the Year, Select Apple Premium Partner, Co. Dublin was named Medium Online Retailer of the Year, while EZ Living Interiors, Co. Cork was also named as Large Online Retailer of the Year. Topline Heavins & Euronics, Co. Westmeath, won Ecommerce Team of the Year.
 
Speaking following the awards, Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland, said: “It’s a pleasure to honour the winners of the 2026 Elavon Retail Excellence Ireland Awards here in Kilkenny this evening. The standard across this year’s submissions has been exceptional, and our panel of judges found it incredibly difficult to choose the final recipients.

“Our awards ceremony continues to be one of the standout moments in Ireland’s retail calendar, offering a chance to spotlight the effort and innovation that characterises our sector. With retailers across the country bravely confronting persistently high costs, the momentum we’re seeing gives us grounds to approach 2027 with hope.”

Accepting the award, Gavin White, Managing Director of EZ Living Interiors, said: “We are delighted to be recognised by Retail Excellence with these three outstanding awards, including the highly prestigious National Retailer of the Year title. These awards are a testament to the passion, commitment and hard work of our teams across the country, who consistently go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service and value for our customers.

“Winning Large Online Retailer of the Year highlights the significant investment we have made in our digital offering, while the recognition of our Sandyford store as Furniture Store of the Year reflects the dedication of our store colleagues and their commitment to creating an exceptional shopping experience.

“The National Retailer of the Year award is a particularly proud achievement for our business as it recognises excellence across every aspect of our operation. It reflects the dedication, talent, and teamwork of colleagues throughout EZ Living Interiors and highlights our shared commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for every customer.

“I would like to pay special tribute to our visual merchandising team, whose passion, creativity and attention to detail help bring our brand to life in stores across the country. Their work plays a vital role in creating inspiring retail environments for our customers and was instrumental in helping us secure this top industry honour.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement and would like to thank our customers for their continued trust and loyalty. Their support has been central to our success, and we look forward to continuing to provide Irish homes with quality furniture, inspiring interiors and outstanding service”.
 
Established by Retail Excellence Ireland in 1997, the Awards is the biggest event in the Irish retail industry calendar and aims to promote best practice and encourage high standards in the Irish retail industry.