The Duckies – It’s in Nottingham Business Awards – have revealed the shortlist of businesses set to compete for the top spots in this year’s celebration of local success.
With 12 exciting categories, these awards honour the hard work, innovation, and impact of brick-and-mortar businesses in Nottingham city centre.
The shortlisted businesses represent the heartbeat of Nottingham’s high street, from buzzing bars and cafes to innovative retailers and cultural venues. The categories and finalists are as follows:
Independent Bar and Pub – Sponsored by Hickman James
- Cock and Hoop
- Fellows Morton and Clayton
- Junkyard Bottle Shop & Pour House
- Penny Lane
- The Grove
National Bar and Pub
- BOX Nottingham
- Fothergills
- Katie O’Briens
- The Alchemist Nottingham
- The Bell Inn
Independent Cafe and Restaurant
- Bar Iberico
- Doughnotts
- Slice ‘n’ Brew
- Vi-Va Indian Tapas
- Working Man’s Kitchen
National Cafe and Restaurant
- BEAR Hockley
- Cosy Club Nottingham
- Pho
- Son of Steak
- The Souvlaki
Entertainment and Leisure Venue – Sponsored by Fancy Entertainment
- Break Escape
- Broadway Cinema
- Escapologic Escape Rooms
- The Bodega
- The Dice Cup
Health, Wellness and Beauty – Sponsored by Boots UK
- Natural Wellness Centre CIC
- Smmmile Nottingham
- Loxley Opticians & Eyewear Experts
- Up & Running
- Urban Escape
Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Nottingham
- Hilton Hotel
- Lace Market Hotel
- Park Plaza Nottingham
- SACO Nottingham
Professional Services – Sponsored by Nottingham College
- Gigantic Tickets
- NCP (National Car Parks)
- Rothera Bray
- STENCIL
- Victoria Centre
Independent Retailer – Sponsored by Loqiva
- Luisa’s Vegan Chocolates
- Montana Shop
- Shop Zero
- The Bead Shop Nottingham
- The Worm that Turned
National Retailer
- Bird & Blend Tea Co.
- John Lewis & Partners
- Molton Brown
- The Whisky Shop Nottingham
- Up & Running
Visitor and Culture Venue – Sponsored by E.on
- National Justice Museum
- Nottingham Playhouse
- Nottingham Contemporary
- Peggy’s Skylight
- The Lost City Adventure Golf
New Business – Sponsored by HSBC
- Peter Pizzeria
- Public Nottingham
- Roxy Lanes
- The Palais
- Working Man’s Kitchen
Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in Nottingham said: “We’re thrilled to announce the shortlist for The Duckies and to see such a diverse range of businesses represented.
“These awards are about celebrating the resilience, innovation, and community spirit that define Nottingham’s high street. Each of these businesses contributes to the unique character of our city, and we’re proud to recognise their achievements. Congratulations to all the finalists!”
An independent assessor reviewed every nomination following the close on 17 March 2025. Finalists were chosen by a panel of independent judges to ensure a transparent and fair process.
The Duckies Awards Ceremony will take place on 29 April 2025 at the iconic St Mary’s Church, Nottingham. Guests will enjoy a black-tie evening featuring gourmet dining, live entertainment, and the thrill of discovering this year’s winners.
For more information, visit – itsinnottingham.com/news/nottingham-business-awards/
